On Jan. 4, 2024, a 17-year-old student at Perry High School in Iowa opened fire, killing a sixth grader and injuring five others. Amongst the wounded were four students and a school administrator, who was later identified as the principal, Dan Marburger. The shooting took place before the classes resumed, with the students having just returned to school after their annual winter break (via Associated Press).
The Perry High School shooting suspect was later identified to be Dylan Butler. As reported by an Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation official, investigators believe he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The potential motive behind the school shooting is still under investigation, with authorities screening through his social media posts that he made right before the shooting.
The police responded to an active shooter at around 7:37 a.m. The teen was armed with a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. They also found an explosive device that the state fire marshal and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives rendered safe (via NBC News).
The Perry High School shooting left everyone shaken
Three of the gunshot victims were taken to the Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines for treatment. The rest were transferred to a second hospital. One of the victims was in critical condition, but their injury wasn’t life-threatening. Others were reported to be in stable condition.
Later in the evening on Thursday, a candlelight prayer vigil was held at a nearby park. As per Perry High School’s Facebook page, the institution will remain closed on Dec. 5, 2024 (Friday). Moreover, students, faculty, and other community members can avail of counseling services.
