Beer Heist and Subsequent Police Chase Leaves Four Injured in Des Moines

DES MOINES, Iowa — A routine theft call turned chaotic on February 5, 2026, when a beer heist escalated into a high-speed police chase that left four people injured, according to local emergency responders and police reports.

The incident began when individuals stole beer from a retail establishment and fled in a vehicle. When officers spotted the suspect vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, the driver sped off, prompting a pursuit through several residential and commercial areas of Des Moines.

Collision Ends Pursuit

The chase concluded when the fleeing vehicle collided with another car at an intersection, causing substantial damage to both vehicles. Emergency medical services were dispatched to the scene, and four individuals, including occupants of both vehicles, were transported to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries.

Police have taken the primary suspects into custody pending medical clearance. Charges are expected to include retail theft, felony eluding, and multiple traffic violations related to the collision. The identities and current conditions of the injured parties have not been released.