Perry, Iowa – Tragedy struck at Perry High School on January 4, 2024, when a school shooting resulted in the death of 11-year-old Ahmir Jolliff. The shooter, identified as Dylan Butler, a student at the high school, also turned the gun on himself. Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger was among those injured in the incident.
Ahmir Jolliff, affectionately known as ‘Smiley’ at home, was an enthusiastic sixth-grader looking forward to returning to school after the holidays. Described as a well-loved and outgoing person, Jolliff was a tuba player, a soccer enthusiast, and a member of the choir. He was also known for keeping a box of toys on the family’s front porch for other neighborhood children to enjoy.
The tragic events also left Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger in critical condition. Marburger was hailed as a hero for his selfless actions in attempting to protect his students during the shooting. Reports indicated that he bravely tried to distract the shooter in order to help the students escape.
The Uvalde Foundation For Kids, a national nonprofit organization formed in response to a previous school shooting, has initiated an emergency fund to assist with Marburger’s medical expenses due to his heroic actions.
The Iowa Department of Public Safety has determined that Ahmir Jolliff’s cause of death was from multiple gunshot wounds and has been ruled a homicide. Reports also indicated that Butler had plans to harm many others, but the shooting took place before the school day had started, resulting in fewer students and staff in the building.
In summary, the tragic school shooting at Perry High School took the life of Ahmir Jolliff, a beloved 11-year-old student, and left several others injured, including Principal Dan Marburger. The heroic actions of Principal Marburger in trying to protect his students have been widely recognized, and efforts to support him in his recovery are underway. These heartbreaking events have deeply impacted the Perry community and shed light on the ongoing issues surrounding school safety and gun violence.