DES MOINES, Iowa, Nov. 5, 2026 â Three people were injured in a shooting at a U.S. Postal Service facility in Des Moines on Thursday morning, prompting a major police response, road closures and temporary security restrictions at nearby schools. A suspect was taken into custody, and authorities said the injuries were not believed to be life-threatening.
The shooting occurred shortly after 9 a.m. at the main post office at 1165 Second Avenue, near University Avenue. Police said two people were shot on the second floor, while a third was injured attempting to escape the building.
Des Moines Post Office Shooting: Latest Police Update
Des Moines police received reports of gunfire at approximately 9:10 a.m. local time. Officers arrived within about three minutes, according to police Sgt. Paul Parizek.
All three injured people were taken to hospitals for treatment. Their identities and detailed medical conditions have not been released.
According to The Associated Press, two people suffered gunshot wounds and another was injured while fleeing the incident.
Police confirmed that the suspected shooter was detained. Authorities reported no continuing threat to the public after the suspect was taken into custody.
Gunfire Reported Inside Four-Story USPS Facility
The shooting happened inside a four-story postal facility north of downtown Des Moines. The building serves as a regional mail-sorting center and includes a public postal counter.
The facility is located across from MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center. Initial reports indicated that the emergency call came from inside the building.
Investigators have not confirmed whether the suspect or injured people were postal employees, customers or other individuals present at the facility.
Police Response and Road Closures
Officers from the Des Moines Police Department, Pleasant Hill Police Department, Polk County Sheriff’s Office and Iowa State Patrol responded to the scene, according to local reports.
Firefighters and emergency medical crews also assisted as police secured the area.
Second Avenue was temporarily closed in both directions, and authorities asked motorists to avoid the intersection of Second Avenue and University Avenue.
The incident follows other recent public-safety emergencies, including a DeKalb County police shooting in Georgia that left two officers injured.
Nearby Des Moines Schools Temporarily Secured
Des Moines Public Schools implemented precautionary security measures after receiving police notification around 9:20 a.m.
A nearby elementary school, welcome center and nutrition center were placed under secure status, restricting entry and exit while officers responded.
The restrictions were lifted around 10 a.m. after police confirmed the suspect was in custody. No shooting was reported at the schools.
In a separate incident, a shooting near the University of Delaware also prompted emergency alerts and a police investigation. Authorities have reported no connection between the cases.
Timeline of the November 5 Shooting
- Shortly after 9 a.m.: Gunfire reported inside the Des Moines postal facility.
- 9:10 a.m.: Police receive emergency calls and respond within approximately three minutes.
- 9:20 a.m.: Nearby school facilities implement security precautions.
- Around 10 a.m.: School restrictions lifted after suspect taken into custody.
- Later Thursday: Investigation continues into the shooting’s circumstances.
Iowa Officials Respond as Investigation Continues
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds said she was in contact with the state’s Department of Public Safety and confirmed the suspected shooter was in custody. She expressed concern for those affected and thanked first responders.
U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley also acknowledged the shooting and expressed support for those affected.
Police have not publicly identified the suspect, announced criminal charges or disclosed a possible motive. Authorities have not confirmed any connection between the suspect and the victims.
It also remains unclear whether the incident affected regional mail processing or delivery schedules.
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Further information about the victims, suspect and possible charges has not yet been announced.
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