On the morning of January 4, 2024, Dan Marburger, a 56-year-old White male, began his day like any other at Perry High School in Perry, Iowa, where he served as the principal. It was the first day back for students after the winter break. Before classes officially began, the school became the scene of a tragic shooting that would ultimately claim his life and that of a student.
The gunman, identified as 17-year-old student Dylan Butler, opened fire in the school's cafeteria where students from various grades were having breakfast.
Marburger, without hesitation, acted heroically to protect his students. He confronted the shooter, attempting to talk him down and distract him long enough for students to escape the cafeteria. In doing so, he put himself in the direct line of fire and was shot multiple times. His selfless actions were credited by his daughter and authorities as instrumental in saving lives that day. Following the initial attack, Marburger was transported to a local hospital where he was listed in critical condition.
For ten days, Dan Marburger fought for his life, surrounded by his family. Despite his efforts and the medical care he received, he succumbed to his injuries on January 14, 2024. His death was announced by his family, who expressed their heartbreak and gratitude for the extra days they were able to spend with him. The community and state officials mourned his loss, hailing him as a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice for his students.
The perpetrator of the shooting, Dylan Butler, was found by authorities with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and died at the scene. Law enforcement officials determined that Butler acted alone in planning and carrying out the attack. Armed with a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun, he also had a rudimentary improvised explosive device that was disarmed by authorities. Prior to the shooting, Butler had made several posts on social media. As the sole suspect who died during the incident, there have been no arrests made in connection with the death of Dan Marburger.
