Des Moines, Iowa – Police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred early Sunday morning, leaving one man dead. The incident took place in the 3600 block of Kennedy Drive around 4:00 a.m., according to the Des Moines Police Department. Authorities responded to a 911 call reporting the shooting and discovered the victim upon arrival. This incident marks the latest in a series of violent crimes in the city, prompting increased police presence and a search for answers.
The victim’s identity has not yet been released by authorities. Details surrounding the circumstances of the shooting remain under investigation, and police have not yet announced any arrests. The investigation is ongoing, and detectives are actively working to gather evidence and identify potential suspects. The shooting is being treated as a homicide, and the Des Moines Police Department is dedicating significant resources to the case. This incident adds to a growing number of homicides in the city this year, raising concerns among residents and local officials.
Details of the Shooting and Initial Response
Officers arrived at the scene on Kennedy Drive after receiving a 911 call reporting the shooting. Upon arrival, they found a man who had succumbed to his injuries. Emergency medical personnel were dispatched to the location, but were unable to revive the victim. The area around the 3600 block of Kennedy Drive was secured as a crime scene, and investigators began collecting evidence.
As of Sunday, March 22, 2026, the investigation is still in its early stages. Police have not released information regarding a potential motive or any specific details about the events leading up to the shooting. Detectives are canvassing the neighborhood, interviewing potential witnesses, and reviewing any available surveillance footage. The Des Moines Police Department is urging anyone with information about the shooting to arrive forward and assist with the investigation.
Separate East Village Homicide Investigated
This shooting comes after another fatal shooting earlier in March in Des Moines’ East Village neighborhood. On Thursday, March 19, 2026, an 18-year-old, Juan Carlos Hernandez-Sarceno, was charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of a 42-year-old man in the 1300 block of Des Moines Street, according to the Des Moines Register. Police believe the East Village shooting stemmed from a dispute over a potential drug transaction.
In that case, officers responded to a 911 call just before 2:00 a.m. And found the victim deceased. A suspect vehicle was stopped near police headquarters approximately an hour later, leading to the detention of two individuals and the recovery of a handgun. Hernandez-Sarceno is currently the only person charged in connection with the East Village homicide. KCRG reports that no charges have been filed against the second individual detained.
The Des Moines Police Department is continuing to investigate both incidents, and officials have stated there is no ongoing danger to the neighborhood in either case. The recent cluster of shootings has prompted increased scrutiny of public safety measures and a renewed focus on crime prevention strategies.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the Kennedy Drive shooting to contact the Des Moines Police Department at their non-emergency number. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the department’s website. The investigation remains active, and updates will be provided as they turn into available.
As the city grapples with these recent tragedies, the focus remains on bringing those responsible to justice and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. The Des Moines Police Department is committed to thoroughly investigating these incidents and working with residents to address the root causes of violence. The next confirmed checkpoint will be the release of the victim’s identity and any potential leads in the investigation.
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