Two Charged With Murder in Fatal Des Moines Beating
Authorities have filed second-degree murder charges against two men following a deadly July assault on Court Avenue.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Violence
Des Moines police have charged Tyrus Bassette and Tavon Campbell with second-degree murder in connection to the fatal beating of 26-year-old Dimitri Craig-Lee English. The assault occurred during the July Fourth holiday on Court Avenue, and police are now seeking a third suspect.
Why it matters
The charges represent a major development in an investigation into a violent group assault that ultimately resulted in the death of English. Authorities have indicated that the case remains active as they work to identify and charge additional individuals involved in the attack.
Tyrus Bassette and Tavon Campbell are being held at the Polk County Jail on second-degree murder charges. Police have also issued an arrest warrant for a third suspect, Tyrice Bassette, and anticipate filing additional charges as the investigation continues.
The players
Dimitri Craig-Lee English
He was a 26-year-old man who died following a severe group beating on Court Avenue.
Tyrus Bassette
The 22-year-old suspect is currently being held at the Polk County Jail on charges of second-degree murder.
Tavon Campbell
The 25-year-old suspect is currently detained at the Polk County Jail following his arrest on murder charges.
Tyrice Bassette
The 24-year-old is currently the subject of an active arrest warrant for second-degree murder.
Des Moines Police Department
This law enforcement agency is leading the criminal investigation into the death of English.
The details
Dimitri Craig-Lee English was subjected to a violent attack on Court Avenue during the July Fourth holiday where he was kicked, stomped, and punched by five individuals. Following the incident, English died in Minneapolis on July 14, leading local authorities to pursue criminal charges against those responsible.
Timeline
The assault on Court Avenue took place during the July Fourth holiday in 2026.
The victim, Dimitri Craig-Lee English, was found dead in Minneapolis on July 14, 2026.
Police officially announced the second-degree murder charges on September 29, 2026.
Legal Context
This case reflects the application of the Iowa second-degree murder statute to hold individual participants accountable for their role in a collective violent crime. It follows a pattern of aggressive prosecution in the state where group assaults result in fatalities.
The investigation into the violent assault on Court Avenue serves as a reminder for residents to report suspicious group activity to local law enforcement. Residents with information about the case are encouraged to contact the Des Moines Police Department at 515-237-1618.
The takeaway
This case serves as a sober reminder of the severe legal consequences for individuals participating in group violence. Authorities continue to urge members of the community to come forward with any details regarding the remaining suspects involved in the July incident.
Further reading
For more information on public safety, visit the Violence section.
