Two police officers in the Des Moines area were shot and killed while sitting in their squad cars in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

According to the Des Moines Register, Urbandale police Officer Justin Martin was shot in his vehicle and was discovered by local police around 1:06 a.m. Martin was pronounced dead on the scene.

Two miles away and 20 minutes later, Des Moines police Sgt. Anthony Beminio, was shot and found in his car. Beminio was then transported to the hospital, but he did not survive his injuries.

Police are describing the attacks as “ambushes.” So far, officers have taken one suspect into custody, Scott Michael Greene, 46, of Urbandale, Iowa, but the investigation is ongoing.

Here in Iowa City, the Iowa City police send their regards to the families of the officers. Iowa City police Sgt. Scott Gaarde described the situation as “a complete and unnecessary tragedy.”

Bermino played football and wrestled at West High in Iowa City in the 1990s.

“I didn’t know Tony personally, but I’ve talked to a dozen of his former teachers and coaches today,” West High principal Gregg Shoultz said. “It’s a very somber day here, and everyone was proud of him.”

— by Wyl Smith and Charlie Peckman