The Armed Citizen® February 24, 2023

A manager of an apartment building thwarted the kidnapping of her daughter—because she was armed.

by posted on February 24, 2023
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
NRA Women The Armed Citizen Aiming A Pistol

A manager of a Des Moines, Iowa, apartment building thwarted the kidnapping of her daughter, thanks to the fact that she was armed. The building is situated near a homeless shelter, which is located near a public skywalk. The manager had observed two people repeatedly walking in front of the apartment building’s main door, prompting her to finally open it so she could inquire if there was a problem. It was then that one of the persons grabbed her child, who had come to the door with her. After a struggle, the manager drew her firearm and ordered them to “let go of my kid.” The couple complied and walked away. Local media reported that Sergeant Paul Parizek of the Des Moines Police Department said, “It certainly looks like the big turning point here, the pivotal piece to keeping her child safe was the fact that she was lawfully armed with a handgun,” he said. Police were able to get an identification on at least one of the suspects by the local security guard.  (who13.com; Des Moines, IA; 1/10/23)

Latest

Deering Summer Scouting Tips Image By Annysmith (1)
Deering Summer Scouting Tips Image By Annysmith (1)

Summer Whitetail Scouting Tips

It’s soon time to start making your plans for the opening day of deer season. How?

The Armed Citizen® Reload July 17, 2026

A woman fled a bad situation—and was smart enough to bring a friend along, just in case.

3 Signs Your CCW Is Not Right For You

Are you carrying a concealed handgun that’s all wrong for you? Here are three signs that it might be time to try something else.

 

New Guns 2026: Smith & Wesson 250th Anniversary Model 1854 Lever-Action Rifles

Available in either .44 Magnum or .45-70 Government cartridge, the limited-edition rifles include a traditional walnut stock and fore-end, and a stainless-steel Armornite-finished barrel and receiver.

Team Mathews Crowns 2026 Women's Triple Crown Champion

Highlighted by a clean sweep in the Women's division, Team Mathews claimed five podiums overall across two divisions to complete the race for the IBO National Triple Crown.

Diamondback SDR-A Lightweight .38 Spl. Revolver Review

This lightweight .38 is an ideal option for pocket or holster carry.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.