A parent, Jody Kurth, reported receiving a distressing text message from her daughter concerning a shooting at Perry High School. Kurth expressed relief upon learning that both her children were unharmed in the incident.
Kurth, a resident of the area for seven years, expressed surprise at the occurrence of such an event in their community, describing her feelings as overwhelming.
At 12:17 PM CST, it was reported that multiple victims of the shooting are receiving medical attention at Iowa Methodist Medical Center and MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center, according to the Polk County Medical Coordination Center. The statement confirmed that all victims’ families had been informed and reunited.
In a separate statement, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds referred to the shooting as a “senseless tragedy” and offered prayers for the students, teachers, and families of Perry Community. The governor also indicated ongoing communication with law enforcement and plans to attend a press conference later in the day.
Perry Elementary School announced the cancellation of classes for the following day and the availability of counseling services at the public library. The middle and high schools, along with Des Moines Area Community College’s Perry VanKirk Center, have also taken measures in response to the incident.
A student from Perry High School, Ava Augustus, recounted the harrowing experience of hiding during the shooting and witnessing its aftermath.
The Department of Justice confirmed that Attorney General Merrick Garland has been briefed on the incident, with the FBI and ATF responding to the scene.
Senator Chuck Grassley expressed his distress over the violence and commended the swift action of law enforcement and school officials. He emphasized the strength of the Perry community in his statement.
UnityPoint Health reported treating two patients with gunshot wounds, and the extent of their injuries is currently undisclosed.
Representative Zach Nunn expressed his anger and commitment to seeking accountability following the shooting, emphasizing the need to protect children, families, and educators.
Dallas County Sheriff Adam Infante confirmed the shooter’s identity but withheld further details, ensuring the public that there was no further danger.
Student Carlos recounted his initial disbelief upon hearing the shooting, initially mistaking it for a prank.
Multiple law enforcement officials reported that the shooter is deceased due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Three others were injured, including two students and an administrator.
President Joe Biden is closely monitoring the situation, with White House staff in contact with Iowa’s governor’s office.
The ATF and FBI are assisting in the investigation. The number of victims and their conditions remain unclear.
Parent Erica Jolliff described her concern for her children’s safety following the incident, as reported by The Associated Press.
The shooting prompted a swift response from law enforcement and emergency services, with multiple agencies converging on the scene. Perry High School, located approximately 25 miles from Des Moines, is part of the Perry Community School District.
The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office is leading the ongoing investigation, with limited information currently available. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.
1 Response
The distressing text message from Jody Kurth’s daughter about the shooting at Perry High School is like a piercing alarm bell that jolts a peaceful neighborhood awake in the middle of the night.