PERRY, Iowa – Perry High School is mourning the loss of their beloved principal, Dan Marburger, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained in a mass shooting earlier this month. The incident, carried out by a 17-year-old student, also resulted in the death of an eleven-year-old student, Ahmir Jolliff, and left six others wounded but recovering. Marburger, hailed as a hero, had put himself in harm’s way to protect his students during the shooting.
In a statement on a GoFundMe page, Marburger’s wife, Elizabeth, announced his passing, 10 days after the shooting. The family had hoped to raise $100,000 for his recovery, and as of Sunday morning, they had reached nearly 70% of that goal. Marburger was not just a principal, but also a long-time fixture at Perry Community Schools, where his daughter Claire is also an educator.
The news of Marburger’s passing has devastated the entire state, with Governor Kim Reynolds offering her deepest condolences to his family. She described Marburger’s actions as courageous and selfless, ultimately giving his own life to save his students. Republican Presidential Candidate Asa Hutchinson also expressed his grief, referring to Marburger as a hero who had made a sacrificial effort to protect his students.
State Auditor Rob Sand echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the courage and selflessness Marburger displayed on the morning of the shooting. Governor Reynolds has ordered all flags in Iowa to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Mr. Marburger, who will be remembered for his heroic actions. The community is now left to mourn the loss of a great man, as they seek to find comfort and support during this difficult time.