UPDATE: Firearm Discharge Inside Vehicle at Childcare Center Prompts Safety Reminder; No Injuries Reported

Your contribution today guarantees Decorah News is asking the questions tomorrow. Act now. DECORAH — A firearm discharged inside a parked vehicle Tuesday morning at Sunflower Childcare Center, sending a round through the windshield but resulting in no injuries, according to authorities. The incident occurred at approximately 7 a.m. on April 22, 2026, as a parent arrived at the childcare facility to drop off a child. Officials said the parent and one child had gone inside the building while two other children remained in the vehicle when the discharge occurred. No injuries were reported, and officials emphasized there is no ongoing threat to the public. The investigation is being led by the Decorah Police Department in coordination with the Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office. Authorities said search warrants are being pursued and criminal charges are expected as the investigation continues. Officials said additional details will be released as they become available. Law enforcement also used the incident to underscore the importance of responsible firearm storage, particularly in situations where children are present. Authorities urged gun owners to ensure firearms are always secured, unloaded when appropriate, and kept inaccessible to unauthorized individuals to prevent accidental discharge and potential harm. UPDATE: NOAH JENS, 33, of Decorah, was arrested April after officers responded to a report of a firearm discharged inside a parked vehicle Tuesday morning at Sunflower Childcare Center, sending a round through the windshield but resulting in no injuries. According to the official criminal complaint obtained by DecorahNews.com, the firearm, a Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0, .380 caliber, had been left in the center console of the vehicle. The firearm did not have a manual safety, and the holster lacked retention. Investigators allege the firearm was discharged by one of the children while inside the vehicle, sending a round through the windshield. Surveillance footage reviewed by law enforcement showed one of the children exiting the vehicle holding an ear. Officials noted that gunfire in an enclosed space can pose a risk of hearing damage. A shell casing was recovered from inside the vehicle. The bullet was not located. Jens cooperated with law enforcement during the investigation, according to the complaint. Noah Jens The investigation, led by the Decorah Police Department in coordination with the Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office, resulted in two felony charges of child endangerment Get the inside scoop! Subscribe to the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and receive local news, expert analysis, and stories that matter most—straight to your inbox.