Three injured in shooting at Des Moines post office; suspect in custody

Incident at Des Moines USPS Facility

A shooting occurred at a United States Postal Service (USPS) office in Des Moines, Iowa, on Thursday, November 5, 2026. According to authorities, the incident took place at the USPS office located at 1165 Second Ave.

Reports regarding the number of casualties vary slightly between sources. Thestar.com reports that the shooting "left three people injured Thursday," while Fox News reports that "multiple people were injured" and "multiple people shot."

Des Moines Police Sgt. Paul Parizek told reporters at the scene that "we're secure right now," according to the Des Moines Register. Regarding the condition of those harmed, Parizek reportedly added, "I didn't see anything that indicated anyone had any life-threatening injuries."

Law Enforcement and Official Responses

Following the shooting, multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the scene. Des Moines Police confirmed that a suspect has been detained in connection with the incident.

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds addressed the situation on X, stating, "I’m in contact with the Department of Public Safety regarding a shooting at the Main Post Office in Des Moines. The suspected shooter is in custody and the investigation is ongoing." Governor Reynolds added, "We are monitoring the situation and our prayers are with everyone involved. Grateful for the immediate response by law enforcement."

Rep. Zach Nunn, R-Iowa, also issued a statement regarding the event. "I’m closely monitoring reports of the shooting at the USPS facility in Des Moines," Nunn said. "My prayers are with the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this tragedy. Grateful to the law enforcement officers and first responders on the scene."

Ongoing Investigation

At this time, the motive for the shooting has not been immediately clear. Law enforcement officials have requested that the public avoid the area while the investigation remains ongoing.

Why it matters

The shooting at the 1165 Second Ave. facility has prompted a large-scale response from local and state law enforcement agencies. While the suspect is in custody, the investigation into the circumstances and the motive behind the shooting is still in progress.

Sources

• thestar.com: Multiple people injured in shooting at Iowa post office; suspect detained
• foxnews.com: Shooting at US Postal Service office in Des Moines, Iowa, leaves multiple injured | Fox News

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.