A veteran probation officer tragically passed away after a self-inflicted gunshot wound Tuesday morning at the newly opened federal courthouse in Des Moines. Authorities report the incident occurred just after 8:30 a.m. in a restricted-access area of the courthouse, located on Locust Street.
Des Moines Police confirmed that only one person was involved in the incident, which is currently under investigation.
The officer, who served for nine years with the U.S. Probation Office, was remembered as a valued member of the court community. In a statement released Tuesday afternoon, the United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa expressed their grief: “He was a deeply respected member of our court family. Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We are processing this tragic event together and ask for privacy as we navigate this loss.”
Details surrounding the circumstances of the shooting remain unclear as authorities continue to investigate the incident.
