Trump assassination attempt victim dies two years after attack

James Copenhaver, one of the spectators wounded in the 2024 assassination attempt against then-presidential candidate Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, has died, officials and his family attorney said on September 24.

Copenhaver, 76, of Moon Township, died on September 23 “surrounded by his loved ones,” attorney Joseph Feldman said in a statement on behalf of his family, ABC News reports.

Copenhaver was one of three attendees struck by gunfire when a gunman opened fire at the rally on July 13, 2024, according to Pennsylvania State Police. Feldman said Copenhaver was “gravely wounded” in the shooting.

The third attendee hit by gunfire, 50-year-old firefighter Corey Comperatore, was killed while shielding his family, officials said.

Trump was grazed in the ear by a bullet during the attack.

Officials identified the gunman as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. He fired up to eight shots from the roof of a nearby building before being shot and killed by a Secret Service sharpshooter.

Following Copenhaver’s death, Trump paid tribute to him on Truth Social.

“God bless American Patriot and Warrior, James Copenhaver, and his incredible family. May he rest in peace!!!” Trump wrote.

By Sabina Mammadli