Police said a confrontation over an alleged theft preceded the shooting, which left another woman with a non-life-threatening arm injury.
DES MOINES, Iowa — A 39-year-old Des Moines woman has been charged with attempted murder after police said she shot another woman Thursday afternoon during a confrontation over an alleged theft in the city’s Merle Hay neighborhood.
Keona Campbell was being held in the Polk County Jail after the Sept. 3 shooting in the 6300 block of Urbandale Avenue. Des Moines police Sgt. Paul Parizek said Campbell also faces a charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Police said she had an active warrant in an unrelated burglary case when officers arrested her.
Officers were sent to an apartment complex shortly before 4:30 p.m. after two 911 calls alerted authorities to the shooting. Police said one caller reported hearing gunfire and a scream, while another caller reported that a person had been shot.
Officers found an adult woman suffering from a gunshot wound to her arm. Des Moines Fire Department personnel treated her at the scene before she was taken to a local hospital. Police said the injury was not believed to be life-threatening. Authorities have not publicly identified the woman.
Police said the woman and Campbell knew each other. Investigators said the shooting followed a confrontation in which the victim accused Campbell of stealing something. Police have not released additional details about what was allegedly taken or the circumstances surrounding that allegation.
After identifying Campbell as a suspect, officers established a perimeter in the surrounding neighborhood and began searching for her. Des Moines police used a drone during the search, and an Ankeny police K-9 officer also assisted.
Less than 40 minutes after the initial shooting report, a resident about a block from the apartment complex contacted police after security cameras recorded someone hiding on the property. Officers went to the area and located Campbell, police said. She was taken into custody without incident.
Investigators also recovered a gun outside a nearby home. Police said they believe the firearm was used in the shooting. Authorities have not released additional information about forensic testing or other evidence connected to the weapon.
The attempted murder and firearm charges are allegations, and Campbell has not been convicted in connection with the shooting. Police said the investigation remains active. No additional injuries were reported, and authorities said there was no continuing threat to the neighborhood after the arrest.
Author note: Last updated September 5, 2026.