WATERLOO, Iowa — Homicide Victim Identified as 35-Year-Old Michael James Alexander Jr., Also Known as Jimmy Jeer Mackin
A sense of grief and unease continues to settle over the community of Waterloo following the fatal shooting of a man early Monday morning. Authorities have now identified the victim as 35-year-old Michael James Alexander Jr., who was also known within the community by his nickname, Jimmy Jeer Mackin.
Waterloo Police say they were dispatched to a residence near the intersection of West 4th and Denver Streets around 8:30 a.m. on Monday after receiving reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers found Alexander lying unresponsive in a driveway, suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency personnel rushed him to a nearby hospital, but despite life-saving efforts, he was later pronounced dead.
A Life Cut Short
Friends and family are now left mourning the loss of a man they say had a complex life story, but a good heart. Known for his nickname “Jimmy Jeer Mackin,” Alexander was a familiar face in many Waterloo neighborhoods. While details about his life are still emerging, many who knew him are remembering him not just for the circumstances of his death, but for the person he was in life.
“He was someone who was trying to figure things out, just like the rest of us,” said one family friend, who asked not to be named. “He was always cracking jokes, he loved music, and he really loved his kids.”
Police Investigation Ongoing
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting, and Waterloo police have not released any suspect information. Investigators are asking anyone with video footage, eyewitness accounts, or other potentially helpful information to come forward to assist in solving the case.
The Waterloo Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit has taken the lead on the investigation and is continuing to process the crime scene, conduct interviews, and pursue leads. Detectives are also working with neighbors in the area to review security camera footage that may shed light on the moments leading up to the shooting.
Police are urging community members to speak up, reminding them that even the smallest piece of information could be crucial in ensuring justice is served.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call Waterloo Police at 319-291-4340 or contact Cedar Valley Crime Stoppers at 855-300-TIPS.
A Community Grieving
The neighborhood where the shooting occurred has seen incidents of violence in the past, but residents say this killing has struck particularly close to home.
“Violence like this—it just makes you stop and think,” said one longtime resident. “You never think it’ll happen literally outside your door. Now a man is dead, a family is broken, and we all feel less safe.”
Community activists and church leaders are already discussing how to address growing concerns over gun violence in Waterloo. Several local organizations have expressed interest in organizing a vigil in honor of Alexander, as well as hosting forums to push for more community-based violence prevention strategies.
Remembering Michael James Alexander Jr.
As his loved ones prepare for funeral arrangements, they are choosing to focus on the positive memories they shared with Alexander. They describe him as someone who had weathered difficult times, but who had not given up on creating a better path for himself.
“He was a father, a brother, a son,” said one family member. “He made mistakes—sure—but he loved his people, and we loved him. This shouldn’t have been how his story ended.”
Waterloo remains a community in mourning, as residents come to terms with yet another life lost to senseless violence. While investigators continue their search for answers, those who knew Michael James Alexander Jr. are left to grieve a man whose life, though far from perfect, mattered deeply to many.
If you have any information that may help solve this case, please contact the Waterloo Police Department or reach out anonymously through Cedar Valley Crime Stoppers. Justice for Jimmy Jeer Mackin starts with your voice.