PERRY, Iowa — A tragic incident unfolded at Perry High School near Des Moines, Iowa, where a 17-year-old gunman took the life of a sixth-grade student and injured five others. The wounded individuals included four students and a school administrator, with the school’s principal, Dan Marburger, among those harmed. This devastating attack marked one of several mass shootings in the United States in 2024, reflecting a concerning trend of violence in the country.
Authorities identified the shooter as Dylan Butler, a student at the high school, who ultimately succumbed to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The swift response by law enforcement officers led to the discovery of the gunman and several victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Additionally, an improvised explosive device was found on the premises but was promptly neutralized by authorities.
The gunman, armed with a pump-action shotgun and a handgun, had been active on social media around the time of the shooting, although specific details regarding the content of his posts were not disclosed. Despite the tragic events that transpired at Perry High School, evidence suggests that the shooter acted alone, and there are no perceived additional threats to the community.
In the aftermath of the incident, Governor Kim Reynolds expressed support for the community, acknowledging the profound impact of the tragedy on students, teachers, and families. Various public figures, including former South Carolina governor and GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley, also shared messages of solidarity and lamented the ongoing issue of gun violence in the nation.
As the community of Perry grapples with the aftermath of the shooting, organizations like Brady United Against Gun Violence have emphasized the urgent need to address the pervasive issue of gun violence in America. With a renewed commitment to combatting this deadly epidemic, stakeholders across the country are united in their resolve to create safer environments for students and prevent future tragedies.