DES MOINES, Iowa — The Des Moines Police Department is investigating a fatal crash early Sunday morning.

According to the DMPD, at approximately 3:30 a.m., patrol officers and the Des Moines Fire Department responded to 4080 Merle Hay Road to investigate a report of a crash with injuries.

Authorities say first responders found a 2012 Chevrolet Impala crashed into a light pole in the parking lot. The driver was a 59-year-old male and the only occupant of the vehicle.

Lifesaving efforts were initiated by first responders at the scene and continued at the hospital. Despite those efforts, the driver died at the hospital.

The Des Moines Police Department Traffic Unit is conducting a technical investigation of the crash, according to police. The investigation preliminarily shows that excessive speed was likely a contributing factor.

This is the first fatal crash of 2025 in Des Moines. More information will be released from the department when it becomes available.