January 23, 2025
Date: 01-23-25
This press release is intended to provide an update for the death of Susan “Sam” Fittro and subsequent investigation with the first incident being reported on September 5, 2024, at approximately 2340 hours in West Liberty.
At this time, we can now share that the incident involving the death of Susan “Sam” Fittro was ruled a homicide and the identity of the perpetrator. Mrs. Fittro had been the victim of a single gunshot wound on the evening of September 5, 2024. The assailant fled West Liberty after intentionally shooting and killing Mrs. Fittro. Mrs. Fittro was discovered at approximately 2340 hours by a family member who immediately attempted lifesaving measures and contacted emergency services.
Lifesaving measures were proven to be ineffective, and Mrs. Fittro was pronounced deceased at the scene. A medical examiner was called to the scene, and a death investigation was initiated. After receiving the preliminary autopsy report indicating Mrs. Fittro’s cause of death was a gunshot, the West Liberty Police Department contacted the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), Major Crime Unit for assistance.
The circumstances of Mrs. Fittro’s death were reviewed, determined to be suspicious, and foul play was suspected. Early in the investigation, the cooperating law enforcement agencies became confident in the identity of a suspect and there was no longer a threat to the public. In order to ensure the thoroughness of the investigation, the identity of the suspect was withheld at the time pending follow up on investigatory leads, including the completion of specific forensic examinations.
The suspect was identified as Brady Scott Grimm, who was the son of Mrs. Fittro’s deceased boyfriend, Scott Jeffrey Grimm. DCI agents were aware of Grimm from their involvement with a separate shooting and death investigation in Mt. Pleasant.
The investigation of both incidents determined the following:
On September 5, 2024, at approximately 1530 hours, Grimm was involved in a domestic violence incident at his home in Mt. Pleasant. At approximately 1753 hours, Grimm shot and killed Mrs. Fittro at her residence. At approximately 1830 hours, Grimm returned to Mt. Pleasant and fled from the Mt. Pleasant Police Department who were investigating the domestic disturbance. Grimm then began shooting at pursuing Mt. Pleasant police officers before he lost control and crashed his vehicle. Grimm was discovered deceased by an apparent self-inflicted gunshot by responding units. At approximately 2340 hours, Mrs. Fittro was discovered deceased at her home.
At this time, I would like to share my most sincere condolences to the Fittro family who have been through so much these past months. They were incredibly patient and understanding as the investigation progressed and answers were not readily available to be shared. The Fittro family wanted to thank everyone involved that helped bring this incident to a concise closure despite it being very difficult outcome.
I also would like to extend my thanks to the DCI agents and my officers for their professionalism, thoroughness, and tireless efforts to help provide closure to Sam’s family and friends. Also, to the members of the West Liberty Fire/EMS and Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office for their initial response and lifesaving efforts.
Lastly, I would also like to commend and thank all the citizens of West Liberty that came forward with information to assist with the investigation. The information proved to be invaluable, and we greatly appreciate it.
Chief Josh Houser