Tragedy struck Perry, Iowa, early Thursday morning as a gunman, identified as 17-year-old Dylan Butler, took the lives of a sixth-grade student and injured five others at Perry High School. The incident occurred just as students were returning from their winter break. Among the injured were four students and one administrator, identified as Dan Marburger, the principal at Perry High School. One of the injured victims was reported to be in critical condition.
Dylan Butler, the assailant, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to Mitch Mortvedt, assistant director of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation. Authorities believe Butler acted alone, and the motive behind the attack remains unknown.
The small town of Perry, with a population of 8,000 and located 40 miles northwest of Des Moines, was deeply affected by the shooting. Parents rushed to schools, businesses closed early, and evening candlelight vigils were held, where residents shared their experiences and grief.
At a news conference, Governor Kim Reynolds expressed the profound impact of the incident, stating that it had “shaken us to our core.” Law enforcement agencies praised the coordination of local, state, and federal efforts in responding to the tragedy.
The shooting occurred just before the start of the school day, prompting emergency responses after reports of a person with a gun at Perry High School. Law enforcement arrived within minutes to find victims with gunshot wounds, students and faculty taking shelter, and a “rudimentary” improvised explosive, which was safely handled by authorities.
Dylan Butler was armed with a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. Law enforcement is investigating social media posts made by Butler around the time of the shooting.
The victims, including the deceased student, were taken to medical facilities for treatment. The community, already in the spotlight due to a scheduled campaign event, now grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event. Perry Community School District announced the closure of high school, middle school, and elementary school on Friday.
As the community seeks to heal, the incident has prompted a broader conversation about the safety of schools, with calls for ensuring that students and teachers can focus on learning rather than being plagued by fears of violence. President Biden has been briefed on the situation, and various leaders have expressed condolences and gratitude for the swift response of school and law enforcement officials.
