Des Moines Man Ryan Schonlau Fatally Shot; Step-Grandfather David Lee Ramsey Charged with First-Degree Murder
The Des Moines community is grappling with shock and heartbreak after a tragic family dispute turned deadly in the early hours of Tuesday morning, claiming the life of 38-year-old Ryan Schonlau. According to the Des Moines Police Department, Schonlau was allegedly shot and killed by his step-grandfather, 73-year-old David Lee Ramsey, in a violent encounter that has left neighbors and loved ones stunned.
Officers responded to a 911 call shortly after 4:00 a.m. reporting a shooting at a residence on the city’s east side. Upon arrival, police discovered Schonlau suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Ramsey, who remained at the residence, was immediately taken into custody without incident.
Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert confirmed during a press briefing that Ramsey has been charged with first-degree murder. Although authorities have not disclosed a full motive, preliminary information suggests that the fatal shooting stemmed from a domestic dispute that escalated beyond control. Police are investigating whether there were ongoing tensions within the family that may have contributed to the deadly confrontation.
“This is a devastating situation for everyone involved — a family torn apart by violence,” Chief Wingert stated. “We believe this was an isolated incident within a household, and there is no ongoing threat to the community. However, anytime violence erupts within a family and ends in tragedy like this, it sends shockwaves throughout the community.”
Neighbors who spoke with local media described both men as familiar faces in the area. Schonlau was remembered as a friendly man who often kept to himself but was always willing to lend a helping hand. Ramsey, though known as a quiet retiree, reportedly had a complicated relationship with some family members.
One neighbor, who asked not to be identified, shared, “It’s hard to believe something like this could happen right next door. You hear about family disputes, but for it to end like this — with a man’s life taken — it’s just heartbreaking.”
Court documents reveal that Ramsey is being held at the Polk County Jail without bond. The legal proceedings are only beginning, but prosecutors are preparing a strong case against him. Investigators are also reviewing past police reports and any history of domestic issues involving the family to provide a clearer picture of what may have led to the fatal shooting.
Family members have requested privacy as they process their grief and come to terms with the senseless loss of Ryan Schonlau. Friends took to social media to express condolences and share memories of Ryan, describing him as a man with a big heart who didn’t deserve such a tragic fate.
The Des Moines Police Department continues to investigate, encouraging anyone with relevant information to come forward. This shocking act of domestic violence has not only devastated a family but also rattled the broader Des Moines community, serving as a somber reminder of how quickly conflict can spiral into irreversible tragedy.
As the investigation unfolds and the community mourns, many are left grappling with unanswered questions — and a deep sense of sorrow for a life cut short in a heartbreaking act of familial violence.