Kirk Blunck : Zachary Gaskill convicted for manslaughter in Kirk Blunck’s death

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Zachary Gaskill manslaughter case
2. Kirk Blunck death conviction Zachary Gaskill

The man convicted of involuntary manslaughter for the death of prominent Des Moines architect Kirk Blunck has been identified as Zachary Gaskill. Blunck was found with severe injuries in 2016 at the Teachout Building, where he had an office. Gaskill was accused of causing Blunck’s fall, leading to a wrongful death lawsuit from Blunck’s family. The trial revealed inconsistent stories about the altercation, with Gaskill’s defense focusing on Blunck’s alcohol consumption. Ultimately, Gaskill was convicted of involuntary manslaughter. Blunck, known for his work in renovating historic buildings, was a key figure in the East Village’s economic development. Gaskill is set for sentencing on June 6.

The man who has been convicted of involuntary manslaughter for the killing of prominent Des Moines architect, Kirk Blunck, more than eight years ago has finally faced justice. The tragic incident took place in January 2016 at the Teachout Building, where Blunck had his office. He was found with severe injuries at the bottom of a stairwell, which ultimately led to his untimely death.

**Suspect Identified and Legal Battle Ensues**

Shortly after Blunck’s death, Zachary Gaskill, 33, was identified as the main suspect in the case. Surveillance footage showed him in the vicinity around the time of the incident, and he initially claimed that Blunck had attacked him after he stumbled upon him while searching for a bathroom. Blunck’s family later sued Gaskill for wrongful death, alleging that he had caused Blunck’s fall by attacking him. A judge awarded the family $6.25 million in damages in 2018.

**New Charges and Trial Begin**

In 2022, prosecutors brought second-degree murder charges against Gaskill, citing new evidence that had come to light during the ongoing investigation. The case went to trial, where friends and ex-girlfriends of Gaskill testified to his inconsistent stories about the events leading up to Blunck’s death. Prosecutors also presented witnesses who attested to Blunck’s character, describing him as a calm and positive individual.

**Defense and Verdict**

Throughout the trial, Gaskill’s defense focused on the amount of alcohol Blunck had consumed before the altercation. They argued that there was no evidence to suggest Gaskill intended to kill Blunck, a requirement for a murder conviction. The jury deliberated and returned a verdict of involuntary manslaughter, a misdemeanor that carries a potential sentence of up to two years in prison or probation.

**Legacy of Kirk Blunck**

Kirk Blunck was a major figure in the redevelopment of the East Village, specializing in renovating historic buildings. His firm worked on numerous projects in the area, including the Teachout Building and the Crane Artist Lofts. Despite some projects running into difficulties, Blunck’s contributions to the architectural landscape of Des Moines were significant.

**Sentencing and Closure**

Zachary Gaskill is scheduled for sentencing on June 6, bringing a sense of closure to the long legal battle. While Blunck’s family expressed disappointment with the verdict, they are grateful for the efforts of investigators and prosecutors in securing a conviction. The memory of Kirk Blunck, a beloved figure in the community, will continue to live on through his architectural legacy.

**Author’s Note**

William Morris covers courts for the Des Moines Register and can be contacted at wrmorris2@registermedia.com or 715-573-8166.