A suspect is in custody following a shooting at the main United States Postal Service facility in Des Moines, Iowa, on Thursday morning that left three people injured, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred at the postal facility located at 1165 Second Avenue, prompting a multi-agency law enforcement response.
Officers arrived within three minutes of the initial dispatch call at approximately 9:10 a.m. local time, according to Des Moines Police Sgt. Paul Parizek. The shooting took place on the second floor of the four-story regional sorting facility, which includes a public walk-in service counter. Parizek stated that none of the injuries were believed to be life-threatening, and all victims were transported to nearby MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center for treatment.
The Des Moines Police Department, Pleasant Hill Police Department, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) were among the agencies responding to the scene. Authorities secured the area and conducted a sweep of the building to ensure no additional threats remained. Northbound traffic along Second Avenue was shut down, with drivers redirected south toward downtown Des Moines.
Government and Local Responses
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a statement on social media, confirming the suspect’s detention and stating that she was in contact with the Department of Public Safety regarding the incident. Reynolds expressed gratitude for the law enforcement response and offered prayers for those involved. Rep. Zach Nunn, R-Iowa, and Sen. Chuck Grassley also issued statements on social media, extending their support to victims and their families while praising first responders.
Des Moines Public Schools temporarily placed nearby facilities—including an elementary school, welcome center, and nutrition center—into a secure status at 9:20 a.m. following notification from police. The secure status was lifted at 10 a.m. after authorities confirmed the suspect was in custody.
Ongoing Investigation
The motive behind the shooting has not been disclosed, and authorities have not yet identified the suspect. The investigation remains active, with officials urging the public to avoid the area as work continues. The Des Moines Register reported that the ATF had deployed special agents to assist in the response.
The incident occurred just north of downtown Des Moines, directly across the street from MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center, which facilitated rapid medical response. Law enforcement agencies are continuing to process the scene and interview witnesses as part of the ongoing investigation.