PERRY, Iowa (AP) — The Iowa principal who was critically injured in a school shooting on Thursday is being hailed as a hero for putting himself at extra risk in order to protect students from the teenage gunman. Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger, along with other staff and students, was wounded in the shooting that resulted in the death of a sixth-grade student. The 17-year-old gunman died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot. The incident has left the community of Perry somber, with counseling services being offered and classes canceled across the district.
The shooting took place just after 7:30 a.m. on the first day back to school after winter break. The suspect, identified as 17-year-old Dylan Butler, was armed with a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. Authorities also discovered an improvised explosive device, which was rendered safe. While the motive for the shooting remains unknown, investigators are interviewing Butler’s friends and analyzing his social media profiles for more information.
Friends of the shooter, along with their mother, revealed that Butler had been a victim of bullying for years. They described him as a quiet person who was pushed to his breaking point. However, they also emphasized that his decision to harm others was not justified. Students at Perry High School contradicted the claims of persistent bullying and commended Principal Marburger for his efforts in addressing any reported instances. Marburger, a well-respected figure in the community, is currently in stable condition after undergoing surgery.
The shooting in Perry has once again sparked discussion about gun control measures. However, as Iowa does not require a permit to purchase a handgun or carry a firearm in public, it is unlikely that significant changes to gun laws will be made in the state. Mass shootings have become a recurring issue in the United States, with advocates calling for stricter regulations to prevent such incidents in the future.
A candlelight prayer vigil was held in Perry on Thursday night, bringing together hundreds of community members for a message of hope and unity. Governor Kim Reynolds expressed her condolences, stating that the tragedy has deeply affected the entire state. President Joe Biden and U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland were also briefed on the shooting.
The Perry Community School District, where the high school is located, serves around 1,785 students. Perry is a diverse town with a significant Hispanic population and a high percentage of residents born outside the United States. The close-knit community has been shaken by the events, but they are coming together to support one another during this difficult time.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, as authorities work to determine the motive and gather more information. The injured victims are receiving treatment at local hospitals, with one person in critical condition but stable. As details continue to emerge, the community of Perry will focus on healing and supporting those affected by the tragedy.