The Jefferson County Attorney’s Office has determined a shooting death earlier this month was justified. 46-year-old David Bittner of rural Lockridge was shot in the abdomen while breaking into a home in Lockridge at approximately 11pm on September 4th, and later died of his injuries.

According to Jefferson County Attorney, Timothy Dille, after reviewing statements from witnesses and evidence that showed the deceased had been warned to stop and leave, they determined the shooting was justified. Criminal charges will not be filed against any individual at this time.

Assisting with the investigation in this matter were the Department of Public Safety Division of Criminal Investigation, Iowa State Patrol, The Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Lockridge Quick Responders, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Reserve, Lockridge Fire Department, Midwest Ambulance Service, and Jefferson County Attorney’s Office.