Zachary Gaskill Convicted of Manslaughter in Kirk Blunck’s Death: Justice Served

By Trend News Line 2024-04-16 10:26:07.

**Architect Kirk Blunck’s Case: Man Convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter**

Kirk Blunck, a prominent Des Moines architect, tragically lost his life more than eight years ago in a shocking incident that left the community reeling. Blunck, 62, was found in January 2016 with severe injuries at the bottom of a stairwell in the Teachout Building, where he had an office. The autopsy revealed that the fatal injuries were sustained in a fall, sparking a complex investigation into his untimely death.

The man charged with killing Blunck, Zachary Gaskill, 33, has been convicted of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the case. Gaskill quickly emerged as the main suspect in Blunck’s death, with surveillance images placing him in the area near the time of the incident. During police interviews, Gaskill claimed that he had encountered Blunck while searching for a bathroom and that Blunck had attacked him.

Blunck’s family had previously sued Gaskill for wrongful death, alleging that Gaskill had assaulted Blunck, leading to his fatal fall. A judge awarded the family $6.25 million in 2018. Subsequently, in 2022, prosecutors brought their own case against Gaskill, charging him with second-degree murder based on new evidence uncovered during the investigation.

**Inconsistent Testimonies and Trial Details**

The case went to trial recently, shedding light on the events leading up to Blunck’s tragic demise. Jurors heard testimony from friends who were with Gaskill at the Up-Down bar in the Teachout Building on that fateful day. Additionally, several ex-girlfriends of Gaskill testified to hearing varying and at times inconsistent accounts from him regarding the altercation with Blunck.

Prosecutors called witnesses to testify to Blunck’s character, portraying him as a calm and positive individual who was not prone to violence. Despite Gaskill’s claims that Blunck was the aggressor in the situation, testimonies painted a different picture of the respected architect. The trial delved into the details of the altercation and the events leading up to Blunck’s tragic fall.

**Defense Strategy and Verdict**

Throughout the trial, Gaskill’s defense team focused on Blunck’s alleged intoxication, highlighting the four whiskeys he had reportedly consumed before the encounter. Attorney Michael Adams argued that there was no evidence to suggest Gaskill intended to kill Blunck, a requirement for a murder conviction. The jury deliberated and ultimately returned a verdict of involuntary manslaughter, a misdemeanor carrying potential prison time or probation.

In a statement following the verdict, Blunck’s family expressed gratitude to investigators and prosecutors for securing a conviction. While they acknowledged their disappointment with the outcome, they emphasized the importance of holding Gaskill accountable for Blunck’s death. The family continues to mourn the loss of a beloved architect and community figure.

**Legacy of Kirk Blunck**

Kirk Blunck’s legacy as a developer and architect in Des Moines remains a significant part of the city’s history. Known for his work in renovating historic buildings, Blunck played a pivotal role in the economic development of the East Village and other areas of the city. His firm undertook numerous projects, leaving a lasting impact on the architectural landscape of Des Moines.

Despite encountering challenges with some projects, Blunck’s commitment to preserving the city’s heritage through restoration work was unwavering. His contributions to the community through his architectural endeavors continue to be remembered and celebrated. Gaskill is set to be sentenced on June 6, marking a pivotal moment in the aftermath of Blunck’s tragic death..

– Zachary Gaskill convicted manslaughter Kirk Blunck death
– Zachary Gaskill convicted manslaughter Kirk Blunck incident.