In a heartbreaking turn of events, Perry High School principal Dan Marburger, an Iowa who bravely rescued students during a recent mass shooting, passed away on January 14.
The tragic incident, which unfolded on January 4, claimed the life of a sixth-grade student and left seven others, including Marburger, injured when a 17-year-old student unleashed gunfire within the school premises.
Elizabeth Marburger, Dan’s wife, confirmed his passing in a poignant message shared on a GoFundMe campaign that had been established to support the family during his hospitalization. “At approximately 8:00 am, January 14, Dan lost his battle. He fought hard and gave us 10 days that we will treasure forever,” she wrote.
The occurrence of the Iowa Perry High School shooting, which marked the second event during the early days of 2024, caused a deep impact that echoed across the community in the neighborhood of Des Moines.
Marburger, who had been shot multiple times during the attack, emerged as a hero for his selfless actions. Reports indicate that he attempted to save students by engaging with and distracting the shooter as the tragic events unfolded.
Iowa Dps Recognizes Marburger’s Selflessness
Claire Marburger, the principal’s daughter, took to social media to commend her father’s heroic efforts. She expressed little surprise at his courageous actions, stating, “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.”
The Iowa Department of Public Safety officially recognized Marburger’s selfless act, acknowledging that he “acted selflessly and placed himself in harm’s way in an apparent effort to protect his students.” In honor of his sacrifice, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff.
Governor Reynolds reflected on the tragedy, saying, “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.”
With a dedicated service of at least 25 years to the Perry Community School District, Marburger leaves behind a legacy of bravery and sacrifice that will be eternally remembered by the community he served for decades.
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