Iowa Principal Who Protected Students During School Shooting Passes Away

Des Moines, Iowa - Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger, who put his own life at risk to shield students during a school shooting earlier this month, tragically died on Sunday, as confirmed by Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory. Marburger, who was critically injured in the Jan. 4 attack, passed away after fighting for his life for 10 days following the incident.

The shooting occurred in the school's cafeteria, where students were gathering for breakfast before classes. An 11-year-old middle school student lost their life in the tragedy, while six others sustained injuries. The 17-year-old perpetrator, who opened fire, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

According to the state Department of Public Safety, Marburger displayed immense bravery, acting selflessly by placing himself in harm's way in an effort to protect his students. News of Marburger's passing was shared by his family on a GoFundMe page established to support them during this difficult time.

In a heartfelt post on the GoFundMe page, Marburger's wife, Elizabeth, announced his passing at approximately 8 a.m. on Sunday. She expressed gratitude for the ten days they had together, stating, "Dan lost his battle. He fought hard and gave us 10 days that we will treasure forever."

The news of Marburger's death has garnered an outpouring of support on the Perry Facebook page, with nearly 200 people posting condolences within the first hour. One post referred to him as a "gentle giant," and his daughter, Claire Marburger, shared that it was not surprising he tried to protect his students, writing, "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."

Mitch Mortvedt, the spokesperson for the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, commended Marburger's actions, stating that he did significant things to safeguard others during the shooting. However, specific details were not disclosed. Perry Superintendent Clark Wicks hailed Marburger as a hero for intervening with the teenage gunman, enabling students to escape the dangerous situation.

Authorities identified the young victim of the shooting as 11-year-old sixth grader Ahmir Jolliff. Reportedly, he sustained three gunshot wounds.

The incident took place shortly after 7:30 a.m. on Jan. 4, just before classes were scheduled to resume after winter break. The shooting initially erupted in the cafeteria but was contained to the north end of the school. The suspect, identified as Dylan Butler, was found to possess a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. Authorities also discovered a rudimentary improvised explosive device in Butler's possessions, which experts successfully disarmed.

The community is mourning the loss of Principal Dan Marburger, a dedicated educator who selflessly protected his students. His brave actions during the school shooting will forever be remembered.