Perry, Iowa – An unfortunate incident unfolded at Perry High School on Thursday morning, resulting in the tragic loss of a student’s life and injuries to five others, officials confirmed. The suspected shooter, a student at the high school, also died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, as reported by Mitch Mortvedt, assistant director of the Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Division of Criminal Investigation.
Among the victims were five students, including a sixth grader who unfortunately did not survive, Mortvedt disclosed during a media briefing on Thursday afternoon. Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger was also among those who were shot, confirmed by the Perry Community School Board and the Easton Valley School District.
The incident occurred before the school day had commenced, with very few individuals present in the building. This may have contributed to a more favorable outcome, as revealed by Dallas County Sheriff Adam Infante during an initial press briefing. Law enforcement officers swiftly responded to reports of an active shooting incident around 7:37 a.m. local time, with the suspect identified as 17-year-old Dylan Butler.
Butler was found deceased with a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun, along with a “rudimentary” explosive device that was safely neutralized. The community was assured that there is no further threat to public safety, as authorities focus on unraveling the events leading up to the tragic incident.
Residents and officials of Perry expressed shock and disbelief at the tragic events that transpired on the first day back to school after the winter break. The school district made the decision to close on Friday as a result of the incident. Despite the harrowing experience, survivors and their families are grateful for their well-being, emphasizing the importance of swift action and safety protocols in place at the school.
Law enforcement officials are diligently investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including the suspect’s possible motives and social media activity leading up to the event. The presence of various law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and ATF, underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for a thorough examination of all evidence.
The Governor of Iowa, Kim Reynolds, expressed heartfelt condolences and solidarity with the Perry community, acknowledging the profound impact of the tragedy on the state. President Joe Biden also extended his support and condolences, emphasizing the urgent need for addressing gun violence in the country. As the community grapples with the aftermath of the shooting, questions linger about how such tragedies can be prevented in the future.