BREAKING: Trump Supporters Critically Injured in
Trump Supporters Critically Injured in Assassination Attempt to Attend Inauguration
Two men who were critically injured during an assassination attempt on then-candidate Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, will attend the 47th president’s inauguration on January 20. Trump has previously expressed his ongoing support and contact with the victims, their families, and the family of retired firefighter Corey Comperatore, who was tragically killed while shielding his family during the attack.
Jim Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, and David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, suffered critical injuries when Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire from a nearby rooftop during the July 13, 2024, rally. Crooks, who aimed at Trump, was forced to take a rushed shot when a police officer investigating the rooftop interrupted him. The gunman then redirected his fire toward the officer before unleashing a total of eight shots. The second volley killed Comperatore, who sacrificed himself to protect his daughters. Trump was also grazed in the ear after turning his head just in time. Crooks was ultimately neutralized by a counter-sniper team.
Copenhaver sustained “life-altering” injuries and has undergone multiple surgeries. In a statement released in July, his family expressed gratitude for the support they received. “The Copenhaver family would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of support for James ‘Jim’ as he recovers from the injuries sustained during President Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Jim extends his heartfelt thanks to the first responders, medics, and hospital staff for their exceptional care. He also offers his prayers for the other victims, their families, and President Trump, wishing them all a safe and speedy recovery.”
