Perry, Iowa – The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) confirmed the tragic death of an 11-year-old boy, Ahmir Jolliff, who was killed during the mass shooting at Perry High School on Jan. 4. The shooter, 17-year-old high school student Dylan Butler, died by suicide after fatally shooting Jolliff and injuring several others, including the high school’s principal, two staff members, and four students. The incident took place in the cafeteria before the start of classes that Wednesday around 7:30 a.m.
Jolliff’s cause of death was determined to be three gunshot wounds from the shooter, according to the DPS. In addition to Jolliff’s death, seven people in total “received wounds or injuries of varying degree” during the shooting. The high school’s principal, Dan Marburger, suffered multiple gunshot wounds and remains in critical condition. Governor Kim Reynolds expressed her condolences and solidarity with the Perry community, stating that the senseless tragedy has deeply shaken the state.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with authorities seizing large volumes of digital and social media evidence to review. Once the investigation is complete, the Division of Criminal Investigation’s report will be turned over to the Dallas County Attorney’s Office to determine any additional course of action. As the community continues to mourn, students, faculty, and investigators are working through the aftermath of the tragic event.
The shooting at Perry High School has left a community in mourning and officials grappling with the aftermath of the violence. The incident has raised concerns about school safety and the impact on the students and staff directly affected. While the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting those affected and preventing future tragedies.