An Iowa high school principal who was hailed as a hero for protecting students during January's tragic Perry High School shooting died Sunday, according to his family.
Principal Dan Marburger reportedly died around 8 a.m. Sunday. He was previously listed in “stable” condition in a hospital after being shot by a gunman at the school.
The solemn announcement of the passing of 57-year-old Dan Marburger was made by his wife on GoFundMe page.
“The news hasn't fully broken yet, but Dan Marburger made the ultimate sacrifice. Ten days later he lost his battle and this tragedy cost him his life,” said Elizabeth Marburger, the principal's wife. wrote. “Although Dan is no longer here fighting alongside us, his family will continue to struggle against unfathomable odds in the days, weeks and years to come.”
“The entire Marburger family and the entire Perry community will be forever touched by Mr. Marburger's selflessness,” the update states. “This GoFundMe for him will continue to be used by the Marburger family to process and keep Dan's legacy alive.”
“He fought so hard and gave us 10 days that we will cherish forever,” said his distraught wife.
Marburger was praised for his efforts in the Jan. 4 school shooting in Iowa, where he reportedly helped draw the shooter's attention away from young students.
The Principal’s Daughter – Claire Marburger – I have written On social media, she wrote: 'Yet another post I never thought I'd have to write… If you're lucky enough to know my dad, you know there aren't enough words to say about him. Sho.”
Claire Marburger served as Perry High School's varsity girls basketball coach last year and continues to work for the district.
When the gunman entered Perry High School on January 4, Marburger reportedly distracted the murder suspect to prevent further shooting deaths.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds said: statement“The entire state is devastated by the passing of Dan Marburger. Kevin and I extend our deepest sympathies to his wife and family at this very difficult time. We pray for his comfort. Dan bravely put himself in danger to protect his students. “And in the end, he gave his life to save them. His selflessness and heroism. Your actions will be remembered forever. May you rest in peace.”
On Sunday, Reynolds ordered all flags in Iowa to be lowered to half-staff to commemorate Marburger's sacrifice.
Two other school staff and four students were injured in the shooting at Perry High School. Two of the students remained hospitalized as of Friday.
Mr. Marburger is from Sabra, a town in eastern Iowa on the Mississippi River, and earned a master's degree in educational administration from Drake University.
Marburger reportedly worked for the Perry School District for nearly 30 years.
Marburger is said to have taught physical education and was also an athletic director and middle school administrator. He has reportedly been the school's principal since 1995.
The gunman reportedly killed a sixth-grader at Perry Middle School and injured five others, including Mr. Marburger.
The Iowa Bureau of Criminal Investigation is working with the Perry Police Department and Dallas County authorities to solve this horrific incident.
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