Accident – death – Obituary News :

Perry School Shooting: Ahmir Jolliff Remembered as a Beloved Student

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Perry community in Iowa was left devastated when tragedy struck on Thursday morning, as 11-year-old Ahmir Jolliff lost his life in a shooting incident at Perry High School. Ahmir, affectionately known as “Smiley” among his family and friends, was eagerly looking forward to reuniting with his classmates after the winter break.

Described as a whirlwind of cheerful activity, Ahmir was beloved by all who knew him. His mother shared that he kept a trunk of toys unlocked in the front yard, inviting anyone to join in the fun. In addition to his love for soccer, Ahmir played the tuba and participated in the school choir. Known for his caring nature, he would often approach people, touching their shoulder, and asking about their day.

The tragic incident occurred before classes even began when a 17-year-old student at Perry High School opened fire in the cafeteria. Ahmir, attending the middle school connected to the high school, was shot three times, while seven others, including the principal, staff members, and fellow students, were wounded before the shooter died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

On that fateful morning, Ahmir left for school ahead of his mother and sister, filled with excitement. Erica Jolliff, Ahmir’s mother, found herself frantically searching for her children after authorities arrived and secured the area. Thankfully, her daughter was unharmed, but Ahmir was nowhere to be found.

Heartbroken, Erica Jolliff expressed her horror upon hearing that the shooter, 17-year-old Dylan Butler, had allegedly been a victim of long-term bullying. She extended her condolences to Dylan’s family, emphasizing that they were in her prayers and expressing sorrow for their loss as well.

The shooting occurred just after 7:30 a.m. in the cafeteria, where students from various grades were having breakfast. It then spilled outside but remained confined to the north end of the school, according to the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.

Authorities discovered that Butler had a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. They also found an improvised explosive device in his belongings, which was safely rendered ineffective. Investigating the incident, authorities aim to understand both Butler’s background and the overall school environment.

Superintendent Clark Wicks refrained from discussing whether Butler had experienced bullying but assured that his district takes all bullying situations seriously, striving to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere.

Perry, a small town with around 8,000 residents located approximately 40 miles northwest of Des Moines, was deeply affected by this tragedy. The Perry Community School District, where the high school is situated, has a student population of 1,785.

Ahmir’s mother fondly recalled her son as a beacon of happiness and sociability, someone who seemed to know everyone in town. His beaming smile, accentuated by his adorable dimples, never faded. He was adored by all and had a special ability to make others feel loved and appreciated.

While Erica Jolliff was unaware of the details surrounding Butler’s situation, she expressed sympathy for him. Jolliff hopes that this devastating loss will prompt administrators to prioritize checking on students’ well-being and implementing necessary measures within the school system.

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Associated Press writer Ryan J. Foley contributed to this report from Iowa City, Iowa.

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