Suspect wanted in Mason City murder

MASON CITY — Police are searching for a Mason City man after a murder late Wednesday night in Mason City.

Police Chief Jeff Brinkley says shortly after 10:25 Wednesday night, officers responded to a shooting in the area of 3rd Northwest and North Jefferson Avenue, with the initial call being that one person had been shot.

Officers confirmed this on arrival at the scene, with the victim being transported to MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center where they later died. The name of the victim is being withheld pending the notification of relatives. 

A warrant for first-degree murder has been issued for 38-year-old Benjamin Gonzalez of Mason City, who should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the Mason City Police Department at 641-421-3636.

If you have any information about Gonzalez’s whereabouts, you are asked to contact your local law enforcement agency.