Accident – death – Obituary News :

Iowa Principal Dies After Heroically Protecting Students During School Shooting

Des Moines, Iowa – Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger, who bravely put himself in harm’s way to shield students during a school shooting earlier this month, tragically passed away on Sunday. Marburger succumbed to his injuries sustained during the January 4th attack, which took place in the school’s cafeteria. The shooting resulted in the death of an 11-year-old middle school student and left six others injured. The 17-year-old shooter died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory confirmed Marburger’s passing after the family announced it on a GoFundMe page set up to support them. News of his death prompted an outpouring of support on the Perry Facebook page, with nearly 200 people posting heartfelt 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. Dan courageously put himself in harm’s way to protect his students and ultimately sacrificed his own life to save them. He will forever be remembered for his selfless and heroic actions. May he rest in peace.”

Flags Lowered in Honor of Marburger

In honor of Principal Marburger, Governor Reynolds ordered all flags in Iowa to be flown at half-staff until sunset on the day of his funeral and interment. The governor also encouraged individuals, businesses, schools, and local governments to display their flags at half-staff for the same duration as a sign of respect.

A Father’s Heroic Act

Claire Marburger, the principal’s daughter, took to Facebook on the night of the shooting and referred to her father as a “gentle giant.” She expressed that it was not surprising that he tried to protect his students, stating, “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.”

Dan Marburger had served as principal of Perry High School since 1995 and was widely respected by students, staff, and the community.

Marburger’s Heroic Actions

According to Perry Superintendent Clark Wicks, Marburger intervened with the teenage gunman, allowing students to escape and earning him the title of a “hero.” Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation spokesman Mitch Mortvedt commended Marburger’s significant efforts to protect others, although specific details were not disclosed.

The shooting took place just after 7:30 a.m. on January 4th, shortly before classes were set to begin following the winter break. The incident began in the cafeteria, where students from various grades were having breakfast before the attack spilled outside, ultimately being contained to the north end of the school.

The suspected shooter, identified as Dylan Butler, was armed with a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. Authorities also discovered a rudimentary improvised explosive device among Butler’s belongings, which experts promptly disarmed.

Supporting Marburger’s Family

The GoFundMe page set up for the Marburger family has been further updated to reflect the tragic news. It states, “All of the Marburger family and the entire Perry Community will forever be touched by the selflessness of Mr. Marburger. This GoFundMe will continue to support the Marburger family as they navigate through this difficult time and preserve Dan’s legacy.”

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Marburger family, the Perry High School community, and all those affected by this devastating loss. Principal Dan Marburger will be remembered as a true hero who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect his students.

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