On January 22, 2011, Waterloo Police and Waterloo Fire Rescue responded to the Waterloo Public Library on report of an explosion. The library was evacuated and Officers found that a chemical bomb had exploded causing damage to the floor. There were no injuries.

The investigation into the explosion has lead to the arrest of two male juveniles. Taken into custody was Marqwane Shakeen Christopher Smith, age 16, of 702 Allen Street, Waterloo and Nekema Ziquavise Carter, age 13, of 420 Center Street, Waterloo. They have been charged with Arson in the First Degree.

When questioned by Police, the juveniles admitted to making the explosive device and taking it to the Library where it was placed by some bookshelves and set it off.

Smith is being held in the Black Hawk County Jail. Carter was released to juvenile authorities.

Captain Tim Pillack
Waterloo Police Investigations
319-291-4336