Lone Tree, IA – A welfare check at a Lone Tree residence has led to a first-degree murder charge after deputies discovered a 76-year-old man dead inside his home, according to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at 7:59 p.m. on Monday, July 13, to a welfare check at 217 W. Elm St. in Lone Tree. Upon arrival, deputies located a deceased man inside the residence and immediately began a death investigation.
Authorities identified the victim as Richard Powers, 76, of Lone Tree, who was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was later transported to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for an autopsy.
During the investigation, authorities said Scott Christopher Powers, 52, the victim’s son, was located in Cedar Rapids and taken into custody by the Cedar Rapids Police Department. He was later transferred to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office and is currently receiving medical treatment at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
According to investigators, Scott Christopher Powers has been charged with first-degree murder in violation of Iowa Code 707.2(1)(A). Officials said he is awaiting his initial court appearance.
The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active with assistance from the Iowa City Police Department, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, and the Johnson County Medical Examiner.
Authorities emphasized that the criminal charge is an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
