PERRY, Iowa – Tragedy struck Perry High School in Iowa on Thursday morning, as a 6th-grade student lost his life in a shooting incident. Officials confirmed that five other individuals, including a school administrator, were injured during the chaotic event.
The shooter, identified as 17-year-old Dylan Butler, was a student at the high school. Butler unfortunately lost his life in the incident. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation is actively working on the case to determine the motive behind the shooting, as well as how Butler was able to bring firearms onto the school premises.
Local law enforcement responded swiftly to reports of the shooting, arriving at the scene within minutes. Upon arrival, they encountered a scene of fear and confusion, with students and staff either seeking shelter or rushing to safety. The shooter was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, alongside an improvised explosive device that law enforcement promptly neutralized.
The school principal, Dan Marburger, was among the injured parties and underwent surgery throughout the day. He is currently in stable condition, according to updates shared by his family members.
Students and parents recounted harrowing experiences from the event, with one parent expressing anguish over not knowing the whereabouts and safety of her child. The community remains in shock and disbelief over the senseless tragedy that unfolded on what was supposed to be a regular school day.
As the investigation progresses, the FBI is closely monitoring the situation, offering support and assistance to the local authorities. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has been briefed on the incident, while Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds extends her condolences to the affected individuals and their families.
The aftermath of the Perry High School shooting has left the community shattered, raising questions about school safety and gun laws in the state of Iowa. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for preventative measures and support systems to avoid such tragedies in the future.