Des Moines Homeowner Shoots Intruder After Break-In

Resident acted in self-defense after woman forced her way into home

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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A Des Moines, Iowa homeowner shot and injured an intruder who allegedly forced her way into the home and assaulted the resident around 11 p.m. on February 28. The 46-year-old suspect was treated at a hospital and faces charges of second-degree burglary.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the legal right of homeowners to use force, including lethal force, to defend themselves against violent home intruders in Iowa and many other states. The case also raises questions about mental health, addiction, and other factors that may contribute to such break-ins.

The details

According to reports, the homeowner heard a woman screaming in the backyard followed by someone banging on the back door. When the homeowner investigated, the woman allegedly forced her way into the home and began assaulting the resident. The homeowner tried to fend off the woman while calling 911, but the confrontation ended with the resident shooting the intruder multiple times.

  • The incident occurred around 11 p.m. on February 28, 2026.

The players

Des Moines homeowner

The resident of the home who shot the intruder in an act of self-defense.

46-year-old suspect

The woman who allegedly forced her way into the home and assaulted the homeowner, leading to her being shot.

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What’s next

The 46-year-old suspect was treated at a hospital and faces charges of second-degree burglary, a Class C felony.

The takeaway

This case highlights the legal right of homeowners to use force to defend themselves against violent home invasions, while also raising broader societal questions about the factors that may contribute to such incidents.