Iowa School Shooting: Perry High School Principal Who Protected Students Dies
The heroic Iowa principal who saved students during a recent mass shooting at Perry High School has tragically succumbed to injuries sustained in the attack, as confirmed by his wife. CHRISTIAN MONTERROSA/AFP via Getty Images

The Perry High School principal who bravely shielded students during the Iowa school shooting earlier this month has sadly passed away, according to a statement from Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory.

Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger, critically injured in the January 4 Iowa school shooting, succumbed to his injuries on Sunday, as announced on a GoFundMe page set up by his family, AP reports.

During the shooting, an 11-year-old middle school student lost their life, and six others sustained injuries.

The assailant, a 17-year-old student, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot.

The day following the shooting, the State Department of Public Safety acknowledged the Iowa principal's selfless actions to protect students.

Sadly, news of his death was shared on a GoFundMe page by his wife, Elizabeth, expressing gratitude for the 10 cherished days he fought for.

Governor Orders Flags at Half-Staff Following Iowa Principal's Passing

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds expressed deep sorrow over Marburger's death, ordering flags to be lowered to half-staff, according to CNN.

In a statement, Governor Reynolds said, "Dan courageously put himself in harm's way to protect his students and ultimately gave his own life to save them. He will forever be remembered for his selfless and heroic actions. May he rest in peace."

Marburger dedicated over 25 years to the Perry Community School District, leaving an indelible mark on the educational community.

Responding to the tragedy, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona acknowledged the Iowa principal's heroism, ABC News noted.

"Dan died a hero, protecting his students from the tragic shooting on January 4, something no educator should have to do. May he rest in peace & may we honor his memory with action," he said.

The Iowa Principal

A native of Sabula, Iowa, Dan Marburger attended East Central Community High School and graduated from Central College in 1989 with a degree in education.

He earned a master's in educational administration from Drake University, per the De Moines Register.

Marburger worked in the Perry school district for nearly 30 years, passionate about teaching and demonstrating his commitment to education and student well-being.

Marburger, a former football player and avid golfer, contributed as an educator, athletic director, middle school administrator, and coach.

His daughter, Claire, who served as Perry High School's varsity girls' basketball coach, described him as a "gentle giant" and an extraordinary person.

In a heartfelt Facebook post, Claire shared her father's selfless act during the Iowa school shooting.

"It is absolutely zero surprise to hear he tried to approach and talk Dylan down and distract him long enough for some students to get out of the cafeteria. That's just Dad," she posted

Encouraging grace and understanding, she asked the community to show kindness to the Butler family, emphasizing that individuals are not defined by the mistakes of their children or parents.

Authorities confirmed that the assailant, Dylan, took his own life after the shootings.

Dylan's parents, Jack and Erin Butler, expressed their confusion and grief in a statement, pledging to cooperate with authorities in the pursuit of understanding the tragic events that unfolded on that fateful day.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

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