DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – The fire that destroyed Plaza Lanes in Des Moines earlier this week was accidental in nature. The Des Moines Register reports the fire started on the north end of the building, where the restrooms were located. The loss is estimated to be $7.5 million. The building was insured, and the owners say they will rebuild.

DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – A former employee has been charged with sexually abusing a teenage resident at the Youth Emergency Services & Shelter in Des Moines. KIMT-TV reports 20-year-old Zachary Campbell, of Urbandale, is charged with sexual abuse and sexual misconduct. Shelter officials say Campbell no longer works there.

IOWA (IRN) – The recent deaths of two teenage girls sparked an investigation of Iowa’s Department of Human Services. On Friday, a report released by the Child Welfare Policy and Practice Group paints a picture of overworked, under-trained employees in a department with low morale. The report blames “recent legislative changes in collective bargaining, budget cuts, workload and a culture that seems heavily compliance focused” as the reasons for problems in the agency.

DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – A nonpartisan group that reviews Iowa’s finances has estimated a shortfall of about $37 million in the current $7.2 billion state budget. The Legislative Services Agency provided the data in a report this week. The agency adds that the next state budget, set to go into effect in July, has an expected shortfall of about $65 million.

MUSCATINE, IA (IRN) – Santa Claus paid a visit to the Muscatine City Council Chambers Thursday night, according to KWQC-TV. He interrupted the meeting grabbing presents out of his bag for Muscatine Mayor Diana Broderson. Santa then attempted to give coal to the city council, but was escorted out.