One Dead Following Apparent Suicide Investigation on Interstate 35 in Ankeny

ANKENY, Iowa — One person has died following an apparent suicide that prompted a major police response and significant traffic disruptions along Interstate 35 in Ankeny.

Drivers experienced lengthy delays on southbound I-35 near the Oralabor Road bridge as law enforcement officers conducted an investigation in the area. The incident led authorities to reduce southbound traffic to a single lane for several hours.

The Ankeny Police Department confirmed that officers responded to the scene and maintained an increased presence along the interstate while investigators worked to determine the circumstances surrounding the death.

Officials have not released the identity of the deceased pending notification of next of kin.

Motorists reported heavy congestion as traffic backed up through the area during the investigation. Authorities urged drivers to seek alternate routes and exercise patience while emergency personnel remained on scene.

Police have not disclosed additional details regarding the circumstances that led to the incident, but investigators believe there is no ongoing threat to the public.

“The investigation is ongoing, but there is no danger to the community,” the department said in a statement.

The southbound lanes were eventually reopened after investigators completed their work and cleared the scene.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information that could assist investigators is encouraged to contact the Ankeny Police Department.

The investigation remains active.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available. In the United States, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988 at any time, 24 hours a day.