A 24-year-old Iowa man, Hamza Smajlovic, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, and intimidation with a dangerous weapon after allegedly shooting his ex-girlfriend’s parents as they helped her move out following a recent breakup. The tragic incident resulted in the death of 45-year-old Ruth Sue Ann Robison and left her husband, Tony Ray Robison, critically injured.
The shooting took place as Ruth and Tony were assisting their daughter in moving her belongings from the home she had shared with Smajlovic. According to authorities, Smajlovic allegedly opened fire with a 9mm pistol, targeting Ruth and Tony. When Polk County Sheriff’s officers arrived, they found the couple suffering from severe gunshot wounds.
Ruth had been shot in the head and later succumbed to her injuries, while Tony, also shot in the head, was transported to the hospital in critical condition. Smajlovic reportedly remained at the scene after the shooting, and police confirmed that his ex-girlfriend, who was present in the home, was unharmed.
A criminal complaint states: “The defendant did knowingly, intentionally, and willingly fire a live 9 mm round into an occupied residence at the victim, while in the commission of a murder and attempted murder of two other victims in the home at the time of the shooting.”
Following the incident, a GoFundMe was launched to support Ruth’s family with funeral and medical expenses. The organizer shared, “After the tragic events of Friday, November 1, we are all devastated by Ruth Robison’s loss as well as the hospitalization of Tony Robison. Because of the circumstances, the family was not prepared for the high cost of a funeral service for Ruth and the hospital bills for Tony.
We want to help their family to give Ruth the memorial she deserves, to honor her memory.” The organizer added that the funds would also assist with day-to-day living expenses for the family as they navigate this challenging time.
Smajlovic was taken to Polk County Jail, where he is being held without bond. His preliminary hearing is set for November 12. This tragic incident highlights the devastating impact of domestic disputes, leaving a family in mourning and a community in shock.