Accident – death – Obituary News :

Iowa Principal Who Protected Students During School Shooting Dies

An Iowa principal who bravely put himself in harm’s way to shield students during a school shooting tragically passed away on Sunday, as confirmed by Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory. Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger succumbed to his injuries sustained during the attack on January 4.

The shooting occurred in the school’s cafeteria, where students were gathering for breakfast before classes. Tragically, an 11-year-old middle school student lost his life, and six others were injured. The 17-year-old student responsible for the attack also died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The day after the incident, the Iowa Department of Public Safety commended Marburger’s selfless actions, acknowledging that he had placed himself in harm’s way to protect his students.

Marburger’s wife, Elizabeth, announced his passing on a GoFundMe page, stating that he passed away at approximately 8 a.m. on Sunday. She expressed gratitude for the ten additional days they had with him, treasuring the time spent together.

The news of Marburger’s death prompted an outpouring of support on the Perry Facebook page, with nearly 200 people offering their condolences within the first hour.

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds expressed her condolences, stating, “Our entire state is devastated by the news of Dan Marburger’s death. He courageously put himself in harm’s way to protect his students, ultimately sacrificing his own life. He will be forever remembered for his selflessness and heroism. May he rest in peace.”

In honor of Marburger’s sacrifice, Governor Reynolds ordered all flags in Iowa to be flown at half-staff until sunset on the day of his funeral and interment. She encouraged individuals, businesses, schools, and local governments to follow suit as a sign of respect.

Claire Marburger, the principal’s daughter, fondly referred to her father as a “gentle giant” in a Facebook post on the night of the shooting. She shared that she had always expected him to protect his students, as it was in his nature to put others before himself.

Marburger had served as the principal of Perry High School since 1995 and was widely respected by both students and staff. Perry Superintendent Clark Wicks described him as a hero, recounting how Marburger intervened with the teenage gunman to ensure the safety of the students.

Ahmir Jolliff, an 11-year-old sixth-grade student, tragically lost his life in the shooting. Authorities revealed that he had been shot three times.

The incident took place shortly after 7:30 a.m. on the first day back to school following winter break. The shooting initially began in the cafeteria before moving to the north end of the school. The suspect, Dylan Butler, was armed with a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. Authorities also discovered an improvised explosive device among Butler’s belongings, which was safely disarmed.

This article contains information contributed by Josh Funk of The Associated Press.

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