Man Charged In July 30th Shooting Involving Cedar Rapids Police

(Cedar Rapids, IA) -- A 23-year-old man is facing two counts of Attempted Murder in a Cedar Rapids police involved shooting. Police say 23-year-old Brandon Nelson is also facing weapons, eluding, reckless driving, and other charges stemming from a July 30th shooting in the 2200 block of Glass Road NE during a traffic stop. Police say Nelson pointed a long black gun at an officer, prompting an exchange of gunfire in which Nelson was hit three times. He was recently released from the hospital and taken to the Linn County Jail. Linn County Attorney Nick Maybanks says two police officers involved, Officers Blair Klostermann and Matt Jenatscheck were justified in firing their guns.

 Nelson is charged with the following:

· Attempted Murder, 2 counts,

· Intimidation with a Dangerous Weapon, 2 counts,

· Assault on a Peace Officer with a Dangerous Weapon, 3 counts,

· Interference with Official Acts While Armed with a Firearm, 2 counts,

· Going Armed with Intent,

· Persons Ineligible to Carry Dangerous Weapons,

· Eluding,

· Reckless Driving,

· Driving While Barred.

Police say prior to the gunfire, CRPD Officer Alexander Rink was pursuing Nelson who was driving over 90 mph in the 3000 block of Edgewood Road SW around 3:15 am. Officer Klostermann then spotted the car and followed it on Edgewood Road. Nelson continued speeding and then stopped on Glass Road NE. Officer Jenatscheck then pulled up to help at the scene.

Nelson emerged from the driver’s seat holding a long black gun and refused officers' orders to drop the weapon.