On Sunday morning, September 28, 2025, at approximately 10:00 a.m., officers with the Fort Madison Police Department responded to a report of a suicidal subject at 2215 Avenue G.
Upon arrival, officers encountered a male subject, identified as Josh Hayes, who had barricaded himself on the second level of the residence with a knife. Hayes had sustained multiple self-inflicted lacerations and, during the standoff, started a fire on the upper floor while threatening officers and medical staff with the weapon.
Through coordinated efforts between the Fort Madison Police Department and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Hayes was safely apprehended. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze, and Lee County EMS transported Hayes to a nearby hospital for treatment. He remains in critical condition.
Authorities confirmed that no other individuals were injured and there is no ongoing threat to the community. The Fort Madison Police Department emphasized that help is available for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis and encourages residents to seek support if needed.
Police stated that criminal charges will be filed against Hayes. The incident remains under investigation, and no further details are being released at this time.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.