Des Moines man accused of planting explosive device in ex-roommate’s vehicle

DES MOINES, Iowa — A Des Moines man has been arrested after an investigation into a car fire early Tuesday morning revealed an explosive device started the incident.

Daniel Hellmers, 33, is charged with First-Degree Arson, Possession of Incendiary or Explosive Ddevice with Intent, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Possession of a Controlled Substance-Methamphetamine, and Failure to Affix Drug Tax Stamp according to Sgt. Paul Parizek of the Des Moines Police Department.

Sgt. Parizek said the investigation began when DMPD officers and Des Moines Fire Department firefighters were called to the 1200 block of Hartford Avenue on a report of a vehicle fire around 5:55 a.m. Tuesday. When they arrived, there was no fire but an inspection of the vehicle later in the morning found evidence of explosive damage to the vehicle.

Investigators located debris consistent with an improvised explosive device and Sgt. Parizek said there was damage to the vehicle that was also consistent with an explosion.

Police detectives worked with the ATF to interview witnesses and the owner of the vehicle. Through the investigation, suspects were identified and it was determined the incident was targeted. Sgt. Parizek said the victim and Hellmers used to be roommates.

Hellmers was identified as one of the suspects and his vehicle was located in Ankeny and stopped on I-35 at Oralabor Road, where he was detained.

A search warrant was executed at Hellmers’ residence in the 4200 block of SW 9th Street later in the night, where Sgt. Parizek said a handgun and a methamphetamine were seized.

Hellmers is being held in the Polk County Jail.

The investigation by DMPD and the ATF continues and an additional arrest is expected.

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