Accident – death – Obituary News :

Iowa Shooting Leaves 6th Grader Dead and Heroic Principal Passes Away

Tragedy Strikes Perry High School as Student Opens Fire

In a devastating incident at Perry High School in Perry, Iowa, a 17-year-old student opened fire, resulting in the death of a sixth-grade student and leaving five others injured. The aftermath of this school shooting has left families and students grappling with the emotional toll that could last for years.

Principal Dan Marburger Succumbs to Injuries

Dan Marburger, the courageous principal at Perry High School, who was shot while trying to protect his students, tragically passed away due to his injuries. His family confirmed the heartbreaking news, stating that he died on Sunday, January 14, ten days after the shooting took place.

Elizabeth Marburger, his wife, shared the update on the family’s GoFundMe page, expressing her gratitude for the ten extra days they had with him. She said, “He fought hard and gave us 10 days that we will treasure forever.”

Ahmir Jolliff Remembered

Among those injured in the shooting was 11-year-old Ahmir Jolliff, a beloved sixth-grader who lost his life in the tragic incident. The shooter, identified as 17-year-old Dylan Butler, also died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot.

Community Mourns the Loss of a Hero

The news of Dan Marburger’s death has devastated the entire state of Iowa. Governor Kim Reynolds expressed her deepest condolences to his wife and family, acknowledging Marburger’s selfless actions. She said, “Dan courageously put himself in harm’s way to protect his students, and ultimately gave his own life to save them. He will forever be remembered for his selfless and heroic actions. May he rest in peace.”

Statewide Mourning

In honor of Dan Marburger’s sacrifice, Governor Reynolds ordered all flags in Iowa to be lowered to half-staff until the day of his funeral and internment.

The Legacy of a Heroic Principal

Dan Marburger’s daughter, Claire Marburger, described her father as a “gentle giant” and shared that it was not surprising to her that he tried to protect his students. In a Facebook post, she wrote, “As I heard of a gunman, I instantly had a feeling my Dad would be a victim as he would put himself in harm’s way for the benefit of the kids and his staff. That’s just Dad.”

Mitch Mortvedt, spokesman for the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, commended Marburger for his brave actions during the shooting. Clark Wicks, the superintendent of the Perry school district, referred to Marburger as a “hero” who intervened with the shooter, allowing students to escape.

The tragic incident at Perry High School serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing issue of school shootings and their devastating impact on communities. The loss of a young life and a heroic principal has left the Perry community and the state of Iowa in mourning, as they come to terms with the unimaginable grief and seek ways to heal.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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