“Principal Dan Marburger, Hero of Iowa School Shooting, Dies – Funeral Home Confirms”

Accident – death – Obituary News : Iowa Principal Who Protected Students During School Shooting Passes Away

DES MOINES, Iowa – The Perry High School community is mourning the loss of Principal Dan Marburger, who tragically lost his life while protecting students during a school shooting earlier this month. Marburger, who was critically injured during the attack, succumbed to his injuries on Sunday.

The shooting took place on January 4th in the school’s cafeteria, where students were gathering for breakfast before classes began. An 11-year-old middle school student was killed in the incident, and six others were injured. The 17-year-old shooter also died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Marburger’s selfless acts of heroism did not go unnoticed. The day after the shooting, the Iowa Department of Public Safety commended him for his bravery, stating that he had put himself in harm’s way in an effort to protect his students.

News of Marburger’s passing was first shared on a GoFundMe page set up for his family. His wife, Elizabeth, announced his death, expressing gratitude for the ten extra days they had with him. The Perry Facebook page was flooded with condolences from the community, with nearly 200 people offering their support within the first hour.

Governor Kim Reynolds also extended her condolences, describing the entire state as devastated by the news. She acknowledged Marburger’s selflessness and heroic actions, stating that he would be remembered for his bravery. In honor of Marburger, Reynolds ordered all flags in Iowa to be flown at half-staff until the day of his funeral and interment.

Marburger’s daughter, Claire, took to Facebook on the night of the shooting to describe her father as a “gentle giant” and expressed that it came as no surprise that he tried to protect his students. She referred to her father’s selflessness as a defining characteristic.

Marburger had been the principal of Perry High School since 1995, and his impact on the school community was evident. Perry Superintendent Clark Wicks hailed him as a hero, as Marburger intervened with the shooter to ensure students could escape safely.

The shooting, which occurred just after 7:30 a.m., marked the first day back after winter break. The suspect, Dylan Butler, was armed with a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. Authorities also found an improvised explosive device in Butler’s belongings, which was safely disarmed.

In the wake of Marburger’s passing, the GoFundMe page set up for his family was updated to reflect the lasting impact of his selflessness. The funds raised will continue to support the Marburger family as they cope with their loss and honor Dan’s legacy.

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