Des Moines School Track Meet Cancelled After Shots Fired

Luna Greco

4 min read

Post on May 30, 2025

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The Incident: What Happened at the Des Moines School Track Meet?

The unsettling events unfolded yesterday afternoon around 3:15 PM. Reports of shots fired came from the vicinity of East High School's track meet, which was being held at the nearby Franklin Park. While the exact location of the gunfire remains under investigation, initial reports place it approximately two blocks away from the main track and field area.

• Time of incident: Approximately 3:15 PM yesterday afternoon.
• Location of the shooting: Within two blocks of the Franklin Park track and field location where the Des Moines school track meet was being held. The precise location is still being determined by investigators.
• Initial witness accounts: Several witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots. The exact number of shots fired is currently under investigation and has not been officially released. Descriptions of potential suspects remain unconfirmed at this time.
• Number of shots reported: The number of shots heard varies in witness accounts, requiring further investigation to confirm the exact number.

Immediate Response and Student Safety

Following reports of the gunfire, a swift and coordinated response was launched to ensure the safety of all students and attendees. School officials immediately implemented lockdown procedures, halting the track meet and directing students to designated safe zones.

• School lockdown procedures: East High School initiated its emergency lockdown protocol, effectively securing students within the school and the surrounding area.
• Emergency services response time: Police and emergency medical services arrived on the scene within minutes of receiving the initial reports.
• Method of student evacuation and reunification: A structured evacuation plan was executed, ensuring a safe and orderly reunification of students with their parents and guardians.
• Statements from school officials: School officials released a statement emphasizing the priority placed on student safety and commending the swift response of law enforcement and school staff. They also reassured parents and the community that students were safe and accounted for.

Investigation and Ongoing Inquiry

A comprehensive investigation into the Des Moines school track meet shooting is underway, led by the Des Moines Police Department in collaboration with other local law enforcement agencies.

• Leading law enforcement agencies involved: The Des Moines Police Department is leading the investigation, with support from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
• Current status of the investigation: The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are actively pursuing leads. No arrests have been made at this time.
• Any information released regarding possible motives: No information regarding the motive behind the shooting has been publicly released at this time.
• Calls to action for anyone with information: The Des Moines Police Department urges anyone with information related to the incident to contact them immediately. All tips will be treated confidentially.

Community Reaction and Support

The incident has understandably caused significant concern within the Des Moines community. Social media platforms have been filled with expressions of shock, concern, and support for the affected students and families.

• Social media reactions: A wave of concern and support flooded social media platforms, with many expressing relief that no students were injured.
• Community meetings or support initiatives: Community leaders are planning meetings to address concerns and offer support to the school and surrounding neighborhoods.
• Statements from local officials or community leaders: Mayor Frank Cownie issued a statement expressing gratitude for the swift response of law enforcement and highlighting the community’s resilience.

Conclusion

The cancellation of the Des Moines school track meet due to shots fired near the event underscores the importance of safety protocols and swift emergency responses. The immediate prioritization of student safety following the Des Moines school shooting is commendable, and the ongoing investigation is crucial for ensuring justice and preventing future incidents.

The community’s response reflects both the shock of the event and a strong resolve to support the school and affected families. The cooperation of the community is vital for providing information to law enforcement in their efforts to solve this case. We urge anyone with relevant information to contact the Des Moines Police Department to assist with the Des Moines school shooting investigation and help ensure the safety of our schools. Stay informed about updates related to the Des Moines school track meet incident and contribute to a safer environment for our children. Remember to report any relevant information to the authorities.