Perry High School, Iowa, was further thrown into mourning on Sunday, January 14, 2024. On that day, the school lost its beloved principal, Dan Marburger, from injuries sustained from a school shooting.
Marburger had put his life on the line for his students on January 4, ten days before his death, when a student opened fire on the school premises. In a bid to protect his students, Marburger suffered critical wounds that led to his hospitalization.
The suspect, whom authorities have identified as seventeen-year-old Dylan Butler, came into the school on the day of the incident and headed for the bathroom. There, he prepared himself for the attack before coming out with a pump action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun.
Butler, who also had an improvised explosive device on him, then began shooting randomly. While in the bathroom, he had posted a suspicious and ominous photo on TikTok, which seemed to hint at his plans.
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In the end, Butler himself died of self-inflicted gunshot wounds, but not without killing two people and leaving six people injured. One of the fatalities of the shooting was an eleven-year-old sixth grader.
Marburger, 56, who suffered severe injuries from the ordeal, had to battle for his life on the hospital bed. But sadly, he gave up the ghost after a long and courageous battle.
“Our entire state is devastated by the news of Dan Marburger’s death,” said Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds in a statement.
“Dan courageously put himself in harm’s way to protect his students and ultimately gave his own life to save them,” she added. “He will forever be remembered for his selfless and heroic actions. May he rest in peace.” Gov. Reynolds also ordered all flags in the state to be lowered to half-staff.
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Miguel Cardona, the state’s Secretary of Education, also lamented the unfortunate death. “Dan died a hero, protecting his students from the tragic shooting on January 4, something no educator should have to do,” the secretary said. “May he rest in peace & may we honor his memory with action.”
Marburger will always be remembered for his heroics and selflessness during the shooting. Several accounts confirmed that the late principal attempted to distract the shooter during the incident. This action made it possible for many students to escape the scene safely.
His family will also remember him for the great memories they’ve shared. His wife, Elizabeth, who posted the heartbreaking news on a GoFundMe for the family, remembered Marburger for his unconditional love.
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“He modeled love and grace every day,” she said. “My wish for all of you is to have someone — a parent, a partner, a friend, a sibling — who will love you unconditionally like Dan did for me,” she added. She fell in love with Marburger in her eighth grade, 43 years ago.
Marburger’s daughter, Claire, one of his five kids, said none of his kids ever doubted his love. She said he always showed his love through his presence and many deeds of sacrifice. Truly, Marburger will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.
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