11-Year-Old Victim Identified in Perry High School Shooting

(PERRY, Iowa) — The tragic incident that unfolded at Perry High School in Iowa has claimed the life of an 11-year-old sixth-grade student, Ahmir Jolliff. The Iowa Department of Public Safety released a statement on Friday, revealing that Ahmir was shot three times in the horrifying mass shooting which has left the community devastated.

The number of victims involved in the incident has been increased from the initial reports, with a total of eight victims now confirmed by the Iowa Department of Public Safety. Among the victims are three staff members and four students, who all suffered varying degrees of injuries during the attack.

Perry High School Principal, Dan Marburger, who was injured during the shooting, remains in critical condition. He has been hailed as a hero for his selfless act of protecting his students, as confirmed by the Iowa Department of Public Safety.

The agency further stated that two other students are still being treated in the hospital, while the rest of the victims have been discharged after receiving medical attention.

The suspected shooter in the incident has been identified as 17-year-old Dylan Butler, a student at Perry High School. Authorities have revealed that he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Upon discovering his body, responding officers found a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun in his possession. Additionally, a “rudimentary” explosive device was found in the school premises, which was safely rendered harmless.

At this stage, authorities have not disclosed any information regarding a possible motive behind the attack, and the investigation is still ongoing.

The Iowa Department of Public Safety has stated that a substantial amount of digital and social media evidence has been obtained as part of the investigation, which will require time to review. In addition to this, background checks, eyewitness testimonies, and victim interviews are being conducted to gather further information.

The Division of Criminal Investigation will submit a comprehensive report to the Dallas County Attorney’s Office, which will determine if any additional actions need to be taken.

During a press briefing, Clark Wicks, the Superintendent of Perry Community School District, refrained from commenting on the suspect’s disciplinary record or reports of bullying. Wicks emphasized the district’s commitment to addressing every bullying situation seriously, while ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all students.

In the aftermath of this horrific incident, the Perry school district has decided to keep the schools closed temporarily. The elementary and middle schools are scheduled to reopen on January 12, while the high school students will return at a later date next week.

Superintendent Wicks mentioned that the high school building suffered some damage during the incident, which requires cleaning and repair before students can resume classes. He added, “We want the students to be able to come in here and see that it looks like Perry High School.”

Perry, a suburban town located northwest of Des Moines, has been deeply affected by this tragedy. The shooting took place before the start of the school day when only a few students and faculty members were present in the building.