Des Moines Officers Cleared in Fatal Shooting After Stabbing Incident

Iowa Attorney General finds police use of deadly force justified in confrontation at mental health facility

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:04pm

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The Iowa Attorney General's Office has cleared two Des Moines police officers of wrongdoing in the fatal shooting of a 24-year-old man who stabbed a security guard at a mental health facility and then charged at officers with a knife. The report details the events leading up to the confrontation and concludes the officers' use of deadly force was legally justified.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when responding to mental health crises, where de-escalation is crucial but officers may be forced to use lethal force to protect themselves and others from an armed, violent suspect. It also raises questions about the adequacy of mental health resources and treatment options in the community.

The details

According to the report, police were called to the Broadlawns Crisis Observation Center on February 19, 2026 after a patient, Hunter Thomas Munoz, stabbed a security guard and barricaded the victim in a room. When officers arrived, Munoz had the knife but was not holding it at the time. Officers tried to de-escalate the situation, with one officer deploying a Taser, but Munoz then pulled the knife and charged at the officers, prompting them to open fire and fatally shoot him.

  • On February 19, 2026, police responded to the incident at the Broadlawns Crisis Observation Center.
  • Munoz had been brought to the facility by family members for a mental health evaluation earlier that day.

The players

Hunter Thomas Munoz

A 24-year-old man who had a history of mental health issues and had stopped taking his prescribed medications, leading to a worsening of his condition.

Officer Christian Escobar

A Des Moines police officer who was the first to arrive on the scene and encountered Munoz outside the facility.

Officer James Gano

A Des Moines police officer who also drew his firearm and fired at Munoz during the confrontation.

Officer David Chase

A Des Moines police officer who deployed a Taser during the incident.

Broadlawns Crisis Observation Center

A mental health facility in Des Moines where the incident took place.

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What they’re saying

“You're going to have to shoot me”

— Hunter Thomas Munoz

What’s next

The Iowa Attorney General's Office has concluded its investigation and found the officers' use of force was legally justified. No further action is expected.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for improved mental health resources and crisis intervention training for law enforcement to better respond to individuals experiencing mental health emergencies and de-escalate volatile situations without resorting to lethal force when possible.