In the quiet, rural landscape of Lucas, Iowa, the life of 64-year-old Caucasian female, Julie Elizabeth Dawson, came to a tragic end on Monday, September 17, 2018. She was found deceased in her home, the victim of a fatal shooting. For the preceding nine years, Julie and her husband had built a life on their ranch in Lucas County, where she passionately tended to their horses and various other animals.
Her love for horses was a defining feature of her life, and she often enjoyed riding on the equestrian trail adjacent to their property.
The circumstances of her death unfolded when her husband, Craig Dawson, a 66-year-old retired Des Moines Police Officer, placed a 911 call to report that he had shot and killed his wife. When Lucas County deputies arrived at their residence at 14654 467th Street, they were unable to make contact with anyone inside. Upon entering the home, they discovered the bodies of both Julie and Craig Dawson. Both had sustained fatal gunshot wounds.
The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation joined the Lucas County Sheriff's Office in investigating the deaths. Authorities quickly determined the incident to be a murder-suicide, with Craig Dawson as the perpetrator. Following the investigation, the bodies were transported to the State Medical Examiner's Office for autopsies. Officials assured the public that it was an isolated event and there was no ongoing danger. No arrests were made as the suspect was also deceased. A joint memorial service was later held to remember both Julie and Craig Dawson.
