An Iowa Principal Dies From Injuries Sustained in School Shooting
An Iowa principal, Dan Marburger, who bravely tried to save students during a mass shooting at Perry High School earlier this month, has tragically passed away from his injuries, according to his wife. The shooting took place on January 4th, leaving one sixth-grade student dead and seven others, including Principal Marburger, injured.
Marburger’s wife, Elizabeth, shared the heartbreaking news on a GoFundMe campaign that was set up to support his healing and recovery. She expressed gratitude for the ten additional days they had with him and praised his courageous battle.
The attack at Perry High School was the second shooting on a school property in the US within the first few days of 2024, highlighting the ongoing issue of gun violence in the country.
Marburger, who was shot multiple times, was hailed as a hero for his selfless actions during the attack. His daughter, Claire Marburger, revealed on social media that her father had tried to approach and talk down the shooter, buying precious time for some students to escape the cafeteria. The Iowa Department of Public Safety commended Marburger for his selflessness and bravery in protecting his students.
In honor of Principal Marburger, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff on Sunday. Reynolds expressed her condolences to Marburger’s wife and family, acknowledging his sacrifice to save his students’ lives.
Marburger had dedicated at least 25 years of his life to working in schools in Perry, Iowa, according to the Perry Community School District. His impact on the community and the lives of his students will be remembered for years to come.
During the shooting, officers swiftly responded to the scene and discovered multiple gunshot victims at the high school. The gunman was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, indicating that the attack was ultimately fatal for both the shooter and Principal Marburger.
Tragically, another life lost in the shooting was 11-year-old Ahmir Jolliff, a student at Perry Middle School. Jolliff was shot three times during the attack, according to authorities.
The entire state of Iowa mourns the loss of Principal Dan Marburger, a man who courageously put himself in harm’s way to protect his students. His selfless and heroic actions will forever be remembered. May he rest in peace.
This report includes contributions from CNN’s Elizabeth Wolfe, Raja Razek, Holly Yan, Ashley R. Williams, Andy Rose, Dakin Andone, Evan Perez, and Christina Maxouris..