Dan Marburger: Heroic Perry school principal who saved students by 'distracting' shooter Dylan Butler dies
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
PERRY, IOWA: The courageous Iowa high school principal, Dan Marburger, who valiantly sought to protect his students during the Perry school shooting earlier this month, has died from the injuries sustained in the incident, as announced by the school district.
Marburger's heroic actions during the January 4 shooting were widely praised, as he attempted to "distract" the 17-year-old Dylan Butler, allowing students to escape to safety.
Who were the victims of the Iowa school shooting?
Marburger, along with six others, including students, was injured during the tragic event that claimed the life of 11-year-old sixth grader Ahmir Jolliff.
Marburger's daughter Claire Marburger took to social media to commend her father's selfless courage despite sustaining multiple gunshot wounds.
She described him as a "gentle giant" and an "amazing person" who consistently put himself in harm's way for the well-being of students and staff.
"He does anything for us kids, including driving 7 hrs round trip on school nights to catch my college games in Decorah. Stayed long enough to slip me a $20 tell me I played well, give me a hug, and head out," Claire shared on Facebook.
The suspected shooter, a student at Perry High School, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to authorities. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds expressed devastation over Marburger's death, praising his courageous sacrifice in protecting students.
Iowa mourns heroic Dan Marburger's loss
"Our entire state is devastated by the news of Dan Marburger's death," Gov Reynolds stated.
"Dan courageously put himself in harm's way to protect his students and ultimately gave his own life to save them. He will forever be remembered for his selfless and heroic actions. May he rest in peace," ABC reported.
In honor of Marburger, Reynolds ordered all flags in Iowa to be lowered to half-staff. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona also expressed his condolences, acknowledging Marburger's heroism in shielding students from the tragic shooting.
"Dan died a hero, protecting his students from the tragic shooting on January 4th, something no educator should have to do," Cardona stated. "May he rest in peace & may we honor his memory with action."
In a GoFundMe post, Marburger's family emphasized that he was more than just the Perry High School Principal, highlighting his roles as a husband, father, grandparent, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend.
The post noted, "Dan Marburger gave the ultimate sacrifice," expressing, "All of the Marburger family and the entire Perry Community will forever be touched by the selflessness of Mr. Marburger."
