(The Center Square) – Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger put himself in harm’s way to protect students from a shooter on Thursday morning, the Iowa Department of Public Safety said Friday afternoon.
Eleven-year-old Ahmir Jolliff, a sixth-grader at Perry Middle School, died from multiple gunshot wounds, DPS said.
Marburger remains in critical condition. Two other students shot also remain in the hospital, according to DPS. Seven people were injured in the incident, including four students.
DPS said the shooter was Dylan Butler, a 17-year-old Perry High School student. He died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The investigation, which includes a large amount of digital and social media, is continuing, DPS said.
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said Thursday that counselors would be available to those affected by the shooting. She ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff until sunset Sunday to support the Perry community.
“Our hearts are heavy today, and our prayers are with everyone in the Perry community,” Reynolds said. “This senseless tragedy has shaken our entire state to its core. I want this community to know that every Iowan stands with you.”
