Mass Shooting at Iowa High School Leaves 11-Year-Old Student Dead and Several Others Injured

(PERRY, Iowa) — The devastating mass shooting that took place at Perry High School in Iowa on Thursday has claimed the life of an innocent sixth-grade student. Authorities have now confirmed that Ahmir Jolliff, an 11-year-old student at Perry Middle School, was tragically shot three times during the “horrific” incident. The Iowa Department of Public Safety released this information on Friday, along with an update on the number of victims involved.

The Iowa Department of Public Safety revealed that a total of eight victims were affected by the shooting, contradicting the previous reports that stated a lower number. Among the victims were three staff members and four students, who sustained varying degrees of injuries. Principal Dan Marburger, one of the staff members injured in the shooting, remains in critical condition, garnering widespread praise for his heroic actions.

The Iowa Department of Public Safety commended Principal Marburger, stating, “The investigation thus far confirms Principal Marburger acted selflessly and placed himself in harm’s way in an apparent effort to protect his students.” The department also confirmed that two other students are still hospitalized, while the remaining victims have been treated and released.

The suspected shooter, identified as 17-year-old Dylan Butler, a student at Perry High School, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to authorities. Responding officers discovered Butler’s lifeless body, along with a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. Additionally, a “rudimentary” explosive device was found on the school premises but was successfully rendered safe.

Despite ongoing investigations, authorities have not yet disclosed a possible motive for the shooting. The Iowa Department of Public Safety stated, “Investigators have seized large volumes of digital and social media evidence that will take time to review. Background investigations, as well as eyewitness accounts and victim interviews, are continuing.” The Division of Criminal Investigation’s report will ultimately be submitted to the Dallas County Attorney’s Office to determine any further actions.

During a press briefing, Perry Community School District Superintendent Clark Wicks refrained from commenting on the suspect’s disciplinary record or reports of bullying. He emphasized the district’s commitment to addressing and taking seriously any instances of bullying, but declined to discuss the specifics of this case.

Following the “horrific incident,” the school district has temporarily closed. Superintendent Wicks announced that the elementary and middle schools are expected to reopen as early as January 12th. However, the high school students will not return until the following week. Wicks explained that the high school building sustained some damage, requiring time for cleaning and repairs. The district aims to ensure that students can return to a safe and familiar environment at Perry High School.

Perry, a suburb located northwest of Des Moines, was deeply shaken by the shooting. The tragic incident occurred before the start of the school day, resulting in minimal student and faculty presence within the building.