An Iowa community is grieving the loss of Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger, who tragically passed away 10 days after bravely intervening during a school shooting. The principal, who had served the school for nearly three decades, succumbed to his injuries. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Marburger’s sacrifice.

The shooting occurred on January 4 when a 17-year-old student, identified as Dylan Butler, opened fire at Perry High School. The attack resulted in the death of a sixth grader and injuries to seven others, including Marburger. Known for his dedication and heroism, Marburger attempted to calm the shooter, allowing students to escape.

Marburger, 56, passed away on Sunday, according to his family. Local news outlet We Are Iowa reported that the principal was celebrated for his commitment to student safety and well-being.

The Perry Community School District expressed profound sorrow over Marburger’s passing, stating, “Dan was a tremendous leader in our school district and a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Our school community is heartbroken by Dan’s death.”

In a heartfelt Facebook post, Marburger’s daughter, Claire Marburger, paid tribute to her father’s love and kindness, highlighting his role as a devoted family man and educator.

“If you are lucky enough to know my Dad, you know there are not enough words to say about him,” she wrote. “Dad taught us, inspired us to be better people every day. He passed many lessons and things on to us kids.”

She added, “Another thing Dad taught us was how to love. How to love each other, how to love our parents, how to love our spouses and significant others, how to love our kids and grandkids. And it comes down to one word, selflessly.”

Governor Reynolds acknowledged Marburger’s sacrifice and ordered flags to be flown at half-staff. “Our entire state is devastated by the news of Dan Marburger’s death,” Reynolds said in a statement. “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.”

The shooting, which took place before school started at around 7:37 a.m., also claimed the life of 11-year-old Ahmir Jolliff, whose death has been ruled a homicide by the state medical examiner. The incident occurred during a breakfast program, with only a few students on campus.

Dylan Butler, armed with a pump-action shotgun, a small-caliber handgun, and an improvised explosive device, was apprehended before causing further harm.

Marburger’s impact extended beyond his administrative duties. He provided support to students during times of tragedy, helping them grieve after past incidents such as a fatal car accident and the death of a former student from cancer. Described by his daughter as a “gentle giant” and an “amazing Dad and just amazing person,” Marburger’s presence in the community was profound.

The investigation into the shooting and Butler’s motives is ongoing. Allegations have emerged regarding Butler’s struggles with gender identity.

Prior to the shooting, Butler posted a photo on TikTok showing himself in a bathroom stall with a duffel bag on the floor, accompanied by the caption “Now we wait.”

Butler’s alleged social media accounts used pronouns such as “he/they”, and his TikTok account included a photo with trans flags and the hashtag “genderfluid,” as well as a video of Butler pretending to shoot someone and a screenshot of graffiti that reads: “Love your trans kids.”

Law enforcement and media outlets are examining Butler’s background and potential motives.

A GoFundMe campaign, launched to support Marburger’s family, has raised $172,840 as of early Monday. An update added to the campaign on Sunday acknowledges the ongoing challenges faced by Marburger’s family. “Although Dan is no longer fighting with us here, his family will continue to deal with the unfathomable for many days, weeks, and years to come. All of the Marburger family and the entire Perry Community will forever be touched by the selflessness of Mr. Marburger.”

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