Des Moines, Iowa — A U.S. probation officer has died after a self-inflicted shooting Tuesday morning at the new federal courthouse in downtown Des Moines, authorities confirmed.
The officer was critically injured in the shooting at 111 Locust Street and transported to a local hospital, where he later died, according to Des Moines Police and federal officials. The building is still under construction, but several federal offices, including U.S. Marshals, have already moved in.
The shooting occurred in a secure area, and police said no other individuals were in danger during the incident.
“From being in that office, it is obviously a very tight crew,” said DMPD Sgt. Paul Parizek. “A real family environment with the employees, and they are reaching out to support his family right now.”
Court Family in Mourning
In a statement, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa confirmed the officer had been with the United States Probation Office for nine years.
“He was a valued member of our court family,” the court said in a release. “Our hearts go out to his family and friends in the wake of this tragedy. We are grieving together and ask for time and space to process the event.”
Rep. Rob Johnson (D-Des Moines) led the Iowa House in a moment of silence following news of the shooting, calling for support and protection of public servants and courthouse workers.
Courthouse Still Under Construction
The incident occurred at the site of the new $136 million federal courthouse, located along the Des Moines River. Construction began in 2019 and was originally scheduled to finish by July 2023. Delays have pushed the opening to spring of this year.
Court proceedings are still being held at the existing 96-year-old courthouse at 123 E. Walnut Street for the time being.