Dylan Butler, a 17-year-old senior at Perry High School in Iowa, was identified as the perpetrator behind a tragic shooting at the school on January 4, 2024. This incident led to the death of a sixth-grader and injuries to five other individuals, including the school’s principal, Dan Marburger. Butler was found dead at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound​​​​​​.

The shooting occurred shortly before the start of the school day during a breakfast program. A student at the school was reportedly grazed by a bullet, suffering injuries to the back and arm. Authorities responded to the incident swiftly, securing both the middle and high schools by 8:27 a.m. local time. Following the incident, the elementary school was evacuated, and affected individuals at Perry High School were transported to MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center​​​​​​.

Also Read: Perry High School shooting: At least 3 injured, suspect dead

Who is Dylan Butler?

Dylan Butler, the suspect behind the Perry High School shooting, was a senior at the school. He was armed with a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun during the attack. A rudimentary improvised explosive device (IED) was also found inside the school​​​​.

Butler’s digital presence, particularly on TikTok under the username “tooktoomuch”, has been a focus of the investigation. His account, which has since been deleted, featured posts that included drug use and content about identifying as “genderfluid,” using pronouns “he/they.” His final post on TikTok, which set the tone for the tragic events, showed a video inside a bathroom stall with a duffel bag on the ground, captioned “Now we wait,” and the song “Stray Bullets” playing in the background​​​​.

Also Read: Perry High School shooting: At least 3 injured, suspect dead

The motives behind Butler’s actions and the circumstances leading to this tragic event are still being investigated. The incident has profoundly impacted the Perry community, prompting a response from Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, expressing sorrow and support for the victims and their families​​.