Des Moines Police reported that officers responded to calls about shots being fired and multiple injuries at East High School at 2:48 p.m. local. According to Des Moines Public Schools, the school was put on lockdown and was released at 4:28 p.m.
Police released Monday’s statement that they arrived at the scene to find three teenagers with gunshot injuries. “Des Moines Fire Department medical personnel transported the victims to the local hospitals.”
According to police, the gunfire appeared to have been fired from a vehicle that was passing near the school. Officers recovered shell casings from the site.
The police said that several suspects were detained, but no charges were filed at this point. The investigation continues.
The identities of the victims were not released. According to police, they were all teenagers. The school district stated that it will provide grief counseling for staff and students until the end of the week.
Superintendent Thomas Ahart stated that “shootings at schools and in the vicinity of schools are becoming too common.” Our students and staff are required to be trained for these types of incidents. The trauma from the numerous drills and incidents will stay with them for many years. It is unfortunate that firearms have become so easily accessible in our country and state. While we remain committed to protecting our staff and students, real changes to gun access laws would be a great help.
