James Copenhaver, a 76-year-old man shot during a 2024 Trump campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, has died. His lawyer, Joseph Feldman, confirmed Copenhaver's death, which occurred on Wednesday at Allegheny Health Network's West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh. Copenhaver was one of three campaign rally attendees shot during an assassination attempt on then-candidate Donald Trump.
The shooting incident took place when a 20-year-old gunman opened fire from a nearby rooftop, grazing Trump's right ear with one bullet. Copenhaver was struck in the arm and in the abdomen, resulting in lingering injuries that left him walking with a cane. Two other attendees were also shot — David Dutch, who survived, and Corey Comperatore, who shielded his family from gunfire and was killed.
Copenhaver's injuries required multiple surgeries, including a transection of his colon, and he had lingering kidney and other damage, including a loss of feeling in his leg. His lawyer described the wounds as "debilitating, grievous, permanent and life altering." Copenhaver and his wife, Marianne Copenhaver, had sued the federal government in June, alleging that the Secret Service and Department of Homeland Security had "utterly failed" to provide appropriate security at the rally.
In a statement issued on behalf of the family, Copenhaver's lawyer said he died surrounded by loved ones. The statement did not specify if his death was directly related to the injuries he suffered at the rally. The family's statement described Copenhaver as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who instilled the values of hard work, integrity, and service to others in his children.
The statement also highlighted Copenhaver's dedication to the country, noting that as a veteran, he proudly served in the armed forces, and his love of country never wavered. Copenhaver was described as a true American patriot who believed deeply in the freedoms and ideals upon which the nation was founded, and he embodied the very best traits of the country.
In a statement posted to social media, Trump called Copenhaver "a true American Patriot." Trump wrote that Copenhaver showed tremendous bravery, courageously continuing to fight and maintaining a positive spirit despite unimaginable hardships.
Key tributes have been paid to Copenhaver following his death, with friends and family remembering his life and legacy.
Key points
- James Copenhaver died at 76 after being shot at a 2024 Trump campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
- Copenhaver's injuries from the shooting were described as "debilitating, grievous, permanent and life altering."
- Copenhaver was remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and veteran who embodied the values of the United States.
