PERRY, Iowa – Reports of a shooting at Perry High School in Iowa shook the community on Thursday morning as law enforcement responded to the scene, led by Dallas County Sheriff Adam Infante.
Infante confirmed that multiple people were shot just before 7:40 a.m. at the school. Emergency responders rushed to the school, where they discovered several victims with gunshot wounds.
At a press conference later in the morning, Sheriff Infante stated that it was uncertain how many individuals had been shot or the severity of their injuries. Fortunately, the threat has been contained, and the public is no longer in danger. An updated briefing is scheduled for later in the day to provide further details on the incident.
Reports indicate that the alleged shooter, who is believed to be deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, may have been a student at the school. Among those injured were two students and a school administrator, identified as Dan Marburger, the long-time principal of the high school.
Two victims with gunshot wounds were taken to UnityPoint Health in Des Moines for treatment, according to a representative from the hospital.
With the incident occurring on the first day back from winter break, fewer students and staff were present in the school at the time of the shooting, according to Sheriff Infante. Multiple law enforcement agencies swiftly responded to the active shooter situation.
The Perry Community School District, with around 1,785 students, is located about 40 minutes northwest of Des Moines. As authorities continue to investigate the tragic event, concerned parents and students were seen having emotional reunions near the school.
The community remains on edge as they await more information on the developing situation.