Damage to Des Moines power station

News

February 9th, 2026 by Ric Hanson

(Radio Iowa) – MidAmerican Energy called Des Moines Police early Sunday to report an injured trespasser had damaged equipment at a power substation, knocking out power to over five-thousand customers.

Des Moines Police say their investigation indicates a man climbed over the fence at the substation, which provides electricity to downtown Des Moines. K-C-C-I T-V reports that when first responders arrived they found a man who was naked. Police say the man’s burns covered about 20 percent of his body. The man was taken to a Des Moines hospital for treatment.

Power was restored in the area about two hours later.