Des Moines Postal Worker Shoots Two Coworkers at Capital Facility
Ten to twelve gunshots echoed across the second floor of the main post office in Des Moines Thursday morning, leaving two employees wounded by gunfire and a third injured while fleeing.
The shooting unfolded in a secure area of the facility just north of downtown, sending emergency responders rushing to the scene across the street from one of the city’s main hospitals. Des Moines police Sgt. Paul Parizek stated that officers arrived within three minutes of the initial 9:10 a.m. emergency calls, securing the area and capturing the female suspect without resistance along a nearby bike path at 9:21 a.m.
Three people were transported to the hospital following the incident, consisting of two women and one man. Parizek confirmed that none of the injuries are considered life-threatening and all victims remain in stable condition. A third worker sustained injuries from a fall while attempting to escape the second-floor postal facility.
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the detained postal employee. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service confirmed it is investigating the shooting in coordination with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
The police response prompted temporary safety measures at nearby educational facilities. Des Moines Public Schools restricted entry and exit at an adjacent elementary school, welcome center, and nutrition center until law enforcement confirmed the suspect was in custody and lifted the restrictions.
Gov. Kim Reynolds shared online that she remains in contact with the Department of Public Safety regarding the shooting. “We are monitoring the situation and our prayers are with everyone involved,” she posted, adding her gratitude for the rapid law enforcement response.
