PERRY, IA – Tragedy struck Perry High School in Iowa Thursday morning when a fatal shooting resulted in at least one death and multiple injuries. The incident was confirmed by law enforcement officials familiar with the matter.
According to a hospital spokesperson, at least two victims are currently receiving treatment at Iowa Methodist Medical Center. The extent of their injuries remains undisclosed.
Dallas County, Iowa, officials have stated the school campus is now secure. Dallas County Sheriff Adam Infante reported that the active shooting situation occurred at approximately 7:37 a.m. local time. The Sheriff also revealed that an officer arrived at the school just seven minutes later and found several gunshot victims.
The suspect behind the shooting is known to the police, but further details have not been made public. Sheriff Infante assured, “There is no further danger to the public. The community is safe.” As the investigation proceeds, police are working on understanding the events leading up to the dangerous shooting incident and making necessary notifications.
The shooting situation took place before the school day had officially begun, resulting in few students and staff being present at the scene- a factor that Sheriff Infante credits for aiding in a relatively controlled outcome of the situation.
To assist the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, the FBI’s Des Moines office has sent a resident agent to the scene. Personnel from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives are also currently present.
Perry, where the tragic incident unfolded, is a suburb located northwest of Des Moines. Another press update regarding the situation is anticipated from the police in the afternoon.