Unexpected Incident Claims Officer’s Life at Des Moines Courthouse

Four people carrying a coffin with white flowers.

U.S. Probation Officer Dan Velasco died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the newly constructed federal courthouse in Des Moines, leaving the legal community in mourning and raising questions about the circumstances behind this tragedy.

Key Takeaways

U.S. Probation Officer Dan Velasco died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the Des Moines federal courthouse.
The incident occurred in a secure area of the $136 million courthouse facility that was nearing completion.
Velasco had served with the United States Probation Office for nine years before his tragic death.
Des Moines police and the Department of Homeland Security confirmed there was no threat to other employees at the facility.
Iowa House lawmakers observed a moment of silence led by Rep. Rob Johnson in response to the incident.

Incident at Nearly Completed Federal Courthouse

The nearly completed federal courthouse in downtown Des Moines became the scene of a tragedy when United States Probation Officer Dan Velasco suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The incident occurred at the new $136 million facility located at 111 Locust Street. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by first responders, Velasco was transported to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries. The shooting took place in a secure area of the building, and authorities quickly determined there was no danger to other employees working at the facility.

The Des Moines Police Department, working alongside the Department of Homeland Security, began an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Officials have been careful not to release additional details during the ongoing investigation, focusing instead on supporting the courthouse community during this difficult time. The new federal courthouse, while still under construction, had already seen some offices relocate to the premises, though most court operations continue to be conducted at the older federal courthouse at 123 E. Walnut Ave.

Probation officer dies after self-inflicted shooting at federal courthouse in Des Moines | Click on the image to read the full story https://t.co/IVNqsADdxB

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A Dedicated Public Servant Lost

Velasco had served with the United States Probation Office for nine years, establishing himself as a respected member of the federal courthouse team. The United States District Court Southern District of Iowa released a statement expressing their profound grief over the loss of their colleague. Court officials requested privacy and respect for Velasco’s family and coworkers as they process this unexpected loss. The statement reflected the deep impact of Velasco’s death on the entire courthouse community, highlighting the close-knit nature of federal judicial employees.

The incident has resonated beyond the courthouse, affecting the broader Iowa community. In recognition of the gravity of the situation, Iowa House lawmakers observed a moment of silence led by Representative Rob Johnson. This solemn gesture underscored the impact of Velasco’s death on public servants throughout the state and acknowledged the difficult work undertaken by probation officers and courthouse staff on a daily basis. The response highlights the respect shown for those working in the criminal justice system even in the most difficult of circumstances.

Courthouse Project Background

The federal courthouse where this tragedy occurred represents a significant investment in Des Moines’ infrastructure. Construction of the $136 million facility began in August 2019 with an original completion date set for July 2023. However, various delays pushed the anticipated opening to spring 2025. The building was in its final stages of completion when the incident occurred, with some administrative offices already operating from the new location. The project has been a major development for the city, designed to modernize federal court operations in Iowa’s capital.

Despite this tragedy, officials have indicated that the courthouse development will continue as planned. The incident occurred in an already-secured portion of the building that had been prepared for early occupancy. Authorities have emphasized that proper security protocols were in place at the time of the incident, and the shooting does not reflect any breach in the courthouse’s safety systems. Court administrators will likely review security and employee support procedures as they prepare for the facility’s full opening later this year.