DES MOINES, Iowa: Three employees were injured in a shooting at a United States Postal Service (USPS) facility in Des Moines, Iowa, on Thursday, November 5, 2026, after a postal worker allegedly opened fire on colleagues inside the building. Police arrested the suspected shooter shortly after receiving emergency calls, bringing the immediate threat under control.
According to the Des Moines Police Department, officers received multiple emergency calls at approximately 9:10 a.m. reporting gunfire inside the main post office, located at 1165 Second Avenue, just north of downtown Des Moines.
Police arrived within three minutes and secured the scene. The suspected shooter was apprehended at approximately 9:21 a.m., about 11 minutes after the first emergency reports.
Authorities identified the suspect as 39-year-old Jennifer Christine Pledger of West Des Moines. She is a postal service employee and faces two counts of attempted murder, two counts of willful injury causing serious injury and one count of intimidation with a dangerous weapon.
Three Postal Employees Injured
Investigators said two female employees sustained gunshot wounds during the incident. A third employee, a man, suffered injuries after falling while attempting to escape the shooting.
All three victims were transported to local hospitals for medical treatment. Initial assessments indicated that their injuries were not life-threatening, and police said they were receiving medical care.
According to investigators, the shooting occurred on the second floor of the four-story postal facility, in an employee-only section of the building. Witness accounts indicated that multiple shots were fired during the incident.
The facility also has a public service counter, although the reported shooting took place in an area restricted to employees.
Police Investigation and Nearby School Restrictions
The incident prompted a significant law enforcement response involving local, state and federal agencies, including the Des Moines Police Department and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Nearby Des Moines Public Schools facilities were temporarily placed under secure status following notification from police. The restrictions affected a nearby elementary school, welcome center and nutrition center. Officials lifted the restrictions after authorities confirmed that the suspect was in custody.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds said she was in contact with the Department of Public Safety as authorities investigated the shooting. She also expressed concern for those affected and thanked responding officers.
Investigation Continues
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including what may have led to the violence.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is assisting with the investigation alongside local law enforcement.
The incident has renewed attention on workplace safety and violence prevention at public facilities.
Further information about the investigation, court proceedings and the victims’ recovery is expected as officials release additional updates.