DES MOINES – Some kind of urban party at a downtown non-profit in Iowa’s capital city of Des Moines erupted into a wave of gunfire and potential terror for folks and an innocent food vendor was shot in the mayhem.
Des Moines Police Department detectives are investigating a weekend incident where a bystander was struck by stray gunfire. Police say that just after 10:30 PM on January 17, 2026, patrol officers responded to investigate multiple calls reporting gunfire in the 1600 block of 2nd Avenue.
Upon their arrival, officers found a 26-year-old male with a gunshot injury to his lower leg. Officers learned that he had been working inside a food vending truck when it was struck multiple times by gunfire, with one round striking him. Des Moines Fire Department medics transported him to MercyOne – Des Moines Medical Center for treatment.
As officers investigated further, two persons attempted to run and flee from officers. Both were taken into custody. One, a 15-year-old male, was found to be in possession of a handgun. He was referred to Polk County Juvenile Courts on charges of Interference With Official Acts With A Weapon (Class D felony) and Minor In Possession Of A Dangerous Weapon (Serious Misdemeanor). The second person, 22-year-old James H. Brown, was charged with Interference With Official Acts (Simple Misdemeanor).
A large incident scene was located at 1615 2nd Avenue, commonly known as Urban Dreams, a non-profit center for urban youths and others. Officers learned that a celebration event was being hosted at this location when an exchange of gunfire occurred.
Evidence recovered at the scene, including more than 50 shell casings, indicates that there was gunfire both inside and outside the building, police explained.
Des Moines Police Department Crimes Against Persons Section detectives responded to the scene Saturday evening. Multiple witnesses were interviewed. Detectives continue to investigate, they say, and the Des Moines Police Department Crimes Scene Investigation Unit continues the forensic examination of evidence.