DES MOINES, Iowa–Jan. 23, Des Moines police took three suspects into custody following a shooting at Starts Right Here, a non-profit organization that works with at-risk youth from Des Moines Public Schools. The shooting left two students dead and one teacher injured. Both the Des Moines Public Schools and Governor Kim Reynolds released statements following the shooting.
“We are saddened to learn of another act of gun violence, especially one that impacts an organization that works closely with some of our students,” said Des Moines Public Schools Interim Superintendent Matt Smith: “We are still waiting to learn more details, but our thoughts are with any victims of this incident and their families and friends. Starts Right Here is a valuable partner to DMPS, doing important work to help us re-engage students, and we stand by to support them during this critical time.”
“I am shocked and saddened to hear about the shooting at Starts Right Here,” stated Reynolds: “I’ve seen first-hand how hard Will Keeps and his staff works to help at-risk kids through this alternative education program. My heart breaks for them, these kids and their families. Kevin and I are praying for their safe recovery.”
