WATERLOO, IA — A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the community of Waterloo following a deadly shooting on Sunday night, July 6, 2025, that claimed the life of 20-year-old A’Tarion Key’Won De’Shawn Spates and left another individual injured.
Known to many by the name #TarionSpates or #BackendTar, A’Tarion was a young man with dreams, personality, and promise—loved by those closest to him and recognized in his community for his energy and presence. His sudden and violent passing has devastated his family, friends, and neighbors, leaving behind a deep sense of loss.
According to Waterloo Police, the shooting occurred just before 11:00 p.m. Officers first responded to reports of gunfire and located a female victim at 1641 Mulberry Street suffering from gunshot wounds. While providing emergency aid, they were directed a short distance away to 1742 Mulberry Street, where they discovered Spates. Tragically, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The female victim, whose name has not been released, was transported to a local hospital and is expected to survive. Her injuries, though serious, are reported to be non-life-threatening.
As of now, no arrests have been made, and police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The Waterloo Police Department is asking anyone with information to come forward by contacting their Detective Division at 319-291-4340 ext. 3 or Cedar Valley Crime Stoppers at 855-300-TIPS. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and community cooperation is critical in helping to bring justice for A’Tarion and those affected by this senseless act of violence.
A’Tarion’s name is now tragically added to the growing list of young lives lost to gun violence—a grim reality that continues to weigh heavily on families across the nation. But those who knew him are choosing to focus not on how he died, but how he lived: as a brother, a friend, and a light in their lives. Social media has since been flooded with tributes, memories, and calls for justice under hashtags like #TarionSpates and BackendTar.
As investigations continue, the Waterloo community holds tightly to A’Tarion’s memory and seeks comfort in unity, remembrance, and the hope that his story will not be forgotten—or repeated.
