PERRY, Iowa – The tragic shooting at Perry High School on January 4 resulted in the death of an 11-year-old sixth-grade student, Ahmir Jolliff, and left the community devastated. The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) confirmed Jolliff’s identity and stated that he had succumbed to three gunshot wounds inflicted by the shooter, 17-year-old high school student Dylan Butler, who then died by suicide. The shooting also injured the school’s principal, two staff members, and four students.
As the community struggles to come to terms with this senseless tragedy, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds expressed her condolences and pledged to stand with the Perry community. The incident, which began in the cafeteria before the start of classes, has left everyone searching for answers and grappling with the aftermath.
The DPS is continuing their investigation and has seized digital and social media evidence, which will take time to review. In the meantime, the community mourns, and authorities are conducting background investigations, eyewitness accounts, and victim interviews. Once the investigation is complete, the Division of Criminal Investigation’s report will be handed over to the Dallas County Attorney’s Office to determine the next course of action.
The devastating events at Perry High School have not only deeply impacted the community but have also shaken the entire state of Iowa. As officials work to understand the motivations behind this tragedy, the community grapples with grief and loss. Regardless of the outcome of the investigation, the emotional scars left by this event will linger for a long time.