Sioux City, IA - On June 26, 2024, at approximately 4:20 AM, officers responded to a burglary in progress at a commercial property located at 2101 Court St.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a man who appeared to have been attempting to steal copper wire and had been electrocuted.

Emergency medical personnel were immediately called to the scene. Despite their efforts, the individual was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The deceased has been identified as Jerrod D. Schweitzberger, 37, of Sioux City.

Initial investigations indicate that Schweitzberger was attempting to remove copper wiring from the property when he came into contact with a live electrical source, resulting in fatal electrocution. A second individual, Denair A. Byars, 39, of Sioux City, was located at the scene and has been charged with third-degree burglary.

The Sioux City Police Department is working with the property owner and other relevant parties to gather more information and ensure the safety of the area. They urge anyone with information related to this incident to come forward and assist with the investigation.

Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at (712) 258-TIPS (8477).