Kalista Hallberg Obituary-Death News; Kalista Rae Hallberg Dies in Muscatine Shooting at Hy-Vee Store
A tragic shooting at the Muscatine Hy-Vee store on Monday, June 30, has left one woman dead and the suspected shooter in critical condition, prompting a full investigation by local authorities. The incident, which unfolded just after 2 p.m., shocked employees, shoppers, and the broader Muscatine community.
According to a press release issued by the Muscatine Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire inside the Hy-Vee store located at 2400 Second Avenue.
When they arrived on scene, they found 37-year-old Kalista Rae Hallberg of Letts, Iowa, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite emergency efforts, Hallberg was pronounced dead at the scene.
The suspect, who has not yet been publicly named, fled the scene following the shooting. A short time later, police located him at the intersection of U.S. Highway 61 and U.S. Highway 38.
The man had suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was still alive when officers found him. Law enforcement officers provided immediate medical assistance, and the suspect was subsequently airlifted to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City. He remains in critical condition.
Initial findings from the Muscatine Police Department indicate that the shooting was the result of an ongoing domestic dispute between Hallberg and the suspect. No further details about the nature of their relationship or any previous reports of domestic violence have been made public.
As of now, no formal charges have been filed, and authorities say the investigation remains active and ongoing. The shooting has left the Muscatine community stunned and grieving. In response to the tragedy, Hy-Vee released a statement expressing condolences and support.
“Our thoughts are with the victim and our entire community as we grieve this loss of life,” the company shared in a social media post. Hy-Vee officials also confirmed their full cooperation with law enforcement during the ongoing investigation.
In an effort to support those affected by the traumatic event, Hy-Vee announced that counseling services would be made available to employees and customers beginning Tuesday, July 1. These services are being hosted at the Musser Public Library in Muscatine, with trained counselors available to help individuals cope with the emotional aftermath.
Despite the devastating nature of the incident, Hy-Vee has moved to resume operations at the Muscatine location. The store reopened at noon on Tuesday, July 1, less than 24 hours after the shooting.
Hy-Vee has not specified whether additional security measures will be implemented moving forward, but company representatives noted that the safety and well-being of employees and customers remain a top priority.
Local residents have been expressing their sorrow and disbelief over the fatal shooting, particularly given that it took place in a familiar, public setting. Many community members took to social media to share their condolences for Hallberg’s family, and others expressed concern over the broader issue of domestic violence and the need for greater intervention and support services.
As the investigation continues, Muscatine police are asking anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident to come forward. Authorities are working to piece together the events that led up to the fatal encounter and are expected to provide updates as more information becomes available.
In the meantime, the city of Muscatine mourns the loss of Kalista Rae Hallberg, whose life was cut short in a moment of senseless violence. Her death serves as a somber reminder of the devastating toll domestic disputes can take and the urgent need for community vigilance, support, and prevention.