PERRY, Iowa – The Iowa community is mourning the loss of Principal Dan Marburger, who died after being shot while protecting students at Perry High School. The tragic incident occurred on Jan. 4 when a 17-year-old shooter opened fire at the school, resulting in one student being killed and several others injured. Marburger, who was critically wounded during the attack, courageously put himself in harm’s way to shield his students from danger.
The principal’s daughter, Claire Marburger, shared on social media that her father had been in surgery after the shooting and had sustained injuries while trying to talk down the shooter. She described how her father took action to distract the shooter and allow some students to escape, demonstrating his selflessness and dedication to his students.
The shooter, identified as 17-year-old Dylan Butler, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Marburger’s family confirmed his passing around 8 a.m. on a Sunday, expressing gratitude for the 10 additional days they were able to spend with him before his passing. Iowa’s Governor, Kim Reynolds, ordered flags at the State Capitol Building to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Marburger.
The loss of Principal Dan Marburger has deeply impacted the community, with many mourning the heroic educator who sacrificed his life to protect his students. His selfless actions will forever be remembered, and the impact of the tragic shooting continues to reverberate throughout the Perry, Iowa community.