In a shocking incident that unfolded at Perry High School in Iowa, a senior student turned into a suspected gunman, killing one and injuring at least four students and the school principal, Dan Marburger.
This tragic event occurred on the first day of classes resumed after the holiday break,
The shooter, Dylan Butler, 17, posted a TikTok of himself posing in what appeared to be the school bathroom hours before the shooting at 7.37 a.m., with the text: ‘Now we wait.’
The Victims
Among the victims of this tragic incident was the school’s principal, Dan Marburger, who sustained gunshot wounds and was rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery.
According to police, a 6th-grade student at Perry Middle School was killed, and four other students were injured.
The Dallas County Sheriff, Adam Infante, said the shooting happened before school started, so there were few students and faculty at the school.
Des Moines Public Schools officials released the following statement Thursday morning:
“Des Moines Public Schools maintains a 24/7/365 security presence throughout the district, which ranges from cameras and other technology to the design of our buildings to our own 15-person public safety staff. While today’s shooting in Perry was isolated, it is a stark reminder about why our investments in these efforts are needed and continue to be enhanced.
“Our hearts go out to our colleagues and everyone in the Perry community. School shootings, no matter where they happen, are always a concern for those of us who work in education as well as our students and our families. Our counselors are available today for students or staff who need a space to talk about their concerns.”
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The TikTok Post
Hours before the shooting, Dylan Butler posted a TikTok video that raised concerns among those who saw it.
The video, taken in the school bathroom, showed Butler making an odd face while a blue duffle bag sat on the ground.
The caption read, “now we wait.” The choice of this caption, coupled with the timing of the video, has raised questions about the shooter’s intentions and state of mind leading up to the incident.
It’s worth noting that TikTok has since removed this account and scrubbed all images.
Law Enforcement Response
As news of the shooting spread, emergency services quickly descended upon Perry High School. Ambulances, police units, air ambulances, and firefighters rushed to the scene to ensure the safety of the students and staff.
The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the shooting and stated that multiple gunshot victims were found inside the school.
Police arrived at the high school within seven minutes of the first call for help Thursday. The swift response by law enforcement agencies played a crucial role in containing the situation and ensuring the safety of the community.
“That’s one of the big pieces that make this successful. You have the inter-agency training that starts months and years before you have an incident like this. If you are not ready and not planning, you are behind. No community is immune to this,” said Sgt. Paul Parizek, with the Des Moines Police Department.
The FBI Omaha Des Moines and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives are also involved in the investigation.
The Lockdown and Aftermath
Following the shooting, Perry High School was placed on lockdown to ensure the safety of everyone on the premises. Tearful parents anxiously gathered at the McCreary Community Building, awaiting news of their children’s well-being.
Sheriff Adam Infante addressed the press, assuring the community that there was no further threat. The shooter was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The investigation is ongoing to determine the motive behind the shooting and to uncover any additional information that may shed light on this devastating incident.
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said Thursday, “Our hearts are broken by this senseless tragedy” and “our prayers are with the students, teachers & families of the Perry Community” on X.
“I have been in contact with law enforcement agencies & am continuing to monitor the situation. I will be joining their press conference today,” she said.
Impact on the Perry Community School District
The Perry Community School District, home to 1,785 students, was deeply affected by the shooting. The incident occurred on the first day back after the winter break, adding to the shock and trauma experienced by students and staff alike.
The district is working diligently to provide support and resources to those affected, including counseling services and additional security measures.
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