Heroic Iowa School Principal Who Protected Students During Shooting Dies

Dan Marburger, the principal who was shot while protecting students during the Jan. 4 shooting at Perry High School in Iowa, has died.

The Perry Community School District confirmed Marburger’s death on its website, and on Sunday, a statement on a GoFundMe page set up to help the Marburger family also confirmed his death.

“Dan was an incredible leader in our school district and a loving husband, father and grandfather. Our school community is heartbroken by Dan’s passing,” the school district said in a statement. “For nearly three decades, Dan was ingrained in every aspect of our Perry Community School District environment, and we feel the tremendous loss of a devoted and caring colleague.”

“The entire Marburger family and the entire Perry community will forever be touched by Mr. Marburger’s selflessness,” a statement on the GoFundMe page said, adding that the money raised will continue to support Marburger’s family.

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As previously reported, Marburger was shot and wounded Jan. 4 when the 17-year-old walked into Perry Middle School before class with a shotgun and a handgun and killed a sixth-grader later identified as 11-year-old Ahmir Jolliff. Marburger and four other students were then wounded.

The suspected gunman was found dead from a gunshot wound when authorities arrived at the scene, according to Iowa State Police.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds released a statement Sunday about Marburger’s death.

“Our entire country is devastated by the news of Dan Marburger’s death. Kevin and I send our deepest condolences to his wife and family as we pray for their comfort at this very difficult time,” she said. “Dan bravely put himself in danger 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.”

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Iowa flags are at half-staff across the state and will remain so until sunset on the day of Marburger’s funeral.

Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education

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