Postal worker shoots two colleagues in Iowa
Suspect Jennifer Pledger was detained in Des Moines after firing 10 to 12 shots inside the main post office.
By Adrian Parker ·
Jennifer Christine Pledger, a 39-year-old postal employee, shot two female co-workers at the main post office in Des Moines, Iowa, on Thursday morning before being captured nearby.
Police said Pledger stood over one victim and fired a second round before fleeing the building. Witnesses reported hearing between 10 and 12 shots during the incident, which took place on the second floor of the facility in an area not open to the public.
The three victims were transported to a hospital across the street from the post office. Two women, aged 45 and 53, and a 55-year-old man were treated for their injuries. All three were listed in stable condition. Police determined that none of the injuries were life-threatening. The male employee was injured in a fall while attempting to escape the scene.
Des Moines Police Sgt. Paul Parizek stated that officers arrived within three minutes of the first call. He said the suspect was detained without resistance along a nearby bike path. A 9 mm handgun was recovered at the scene where Pledger was held. Calls regarding the shooting began around 9:10 a.m., and the suspect was in custody by 9:21 a.m.
Pledger faces two counts of attempted murder, two counts of willful injury causing serious injury, and intimidation. She resides in West Des Moines. Authorities have not yet identified an attorney for the suspect. Attempts to reach relatives also proved unsuccessful.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is investigating the shooting in coordination with local, state, and federal law enforcement. Governor Kim Reynolds posted online that she was in contact with the Department of Public Safety. She added that the state was monitoring the situation and that her prayers were with those involved.
Des Moines Public Schools temporarily restricted entry and exit at a nearby elementary school, welcome center, and nutrition center. Those restrictions were lifted after police confirmed the suspect was in custody. The post office is located just north of downtown Des Moines.
