Iowa Homeowner Shoots Alleged Intruder During Police Response

The homeowner used a handgun to stop the alleged burglary attempt.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

A Des Moines, Iowa homeowner shot an alleged intruder on Saturday night while police were en route to the home. The 46-year-old suspect, Stannita Wilson, was charged with 2nd Degree Burglary after the incident.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing debate around the use of firearms for self-defense in home invasion situations. It also raises questions about response times and coordination between homeowners and law enforcement during emergency situations.

The details

According to reports, someone called 911 just before 11 p.m. to say an alleged intruder had entered the home and was attacking the homeowner. As officers were driving to the home, the caller told the 911 dispatcher that the alleged intruder had been shot by the homeowner using a handgun.

  • The 911 call was placed just prior to 11 p.m. on Saturday night.
  • Police arrived at the home after the homeowner had already shot the alleged intruder.

The players

Stannita Wilson

A 46-year-old woman who was charged with 2nd Degree Burglary after allegedly entering the Des Moines home and being shot by the homeowner.

Des Moines Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the 911 call and found the alleged intruder with multiple gunshot injuries inside the residence.

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What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant bail for Stannita Wilson, the alleged intruder, at a hearing on Tuesday.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing debate around the use of firearms for self-defense, as well as the importance of coordination between homeowners and law enforcement during emergency situations. It raises questions about response times, de-escalation tactics, and the appropriate use of force in home invasion cases.