“Iowa Principal Dan Marburger Dies After Protecting Students in School Shooting”

Accident – death – Obituary News : Dan Marburger, the principal of Perry High School in Iowa, tragically passed away on Sunday after being critically injured in a school shooting earlier this month. Marburger put himself in harm’s way to protect students during the attack, which took place in the school’s cafeteria on January 4th. An 11-year-old middle school student was killed in the shooting, and six others were injured. The 17-year-old shooter also died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The news of Marburger’s death was confirmed by Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory, following an announcement made by his family on a GoFundMe page. Marburger’s wife, Elizabeth, posted on the page saying, “Dan lost his battle. He fought hard and gave us 10 days that we will treasure forever.” The announcement triggered an outpouring of support on the Perry Facebook page, with nearly 200 people posting their condolences within the first hour.

Marburger, who had been the principal since 1995, was praised by the Iowa Department of Public Safety for his selfless actions during the shooting. Details of his heroic actions were not released, but it was clear that he placed himself in harm’s way to protect his students. Perry Superintendent Clark Wicks referred to Marburger as a “hero” who intervened with the teenage gunman so that students could escape.

The shooting occurred just before classes were set to begin on the first day back after winter break. The suspect, identified as 17-year-old Dylan Butler, used a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. Authorities also discovered an improvised explosive device in Butler’s belongings, which was safely disarmed. The motive for the shooting remains unknown, and investigators are analyzing Butler’s social media profiles for potential clues.

In the wake of the tragedy, the Perry community has come together to support one another. The school district canceled classes and provided counseling services for students and staff. A candlelight prayer vigil was held to remember the victims and offer support to their families. The community has also rallied around Marburger’s family, with the GoFundMe page raising funds to help them during this difficult time.

Marburger’s daughter, Claire, described her father as a “gentle giant” who always put others before himself. She shared that she wasn’t surprised by his actions during the shooting, as he would always go above and beyond to ensure the safety of his students and staff.

As the community mourns the loss of Dan Marburger and remembers the victims of the school shooting, they are united in their support for one another. The tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the importance of school safety and the bravery of those who put themselves in harm’s way to protect others..