Former Trump rally shooting victim James Copenhaver dies at 76

James Copenhaver, one of three attendees shot at a 2024 Donald Trump campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, has died, his lawyer said on Thursday.

Copenhaver, 76, was wounded in the arm and abdomen when a 20‑year‑old gunman opened fire from a rooftop, grazing Trump’s right ear. The injuries left him with lasting damage, requiring multiple surgeries and the use of a cane.

Two other rally attendees were also shot: David Dutch survived, while Corey Comperatore was killed protecting his family. Copenhaver died on Wednesday at Allegheny Health Network’s West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh, according to a statement from the Allegheny County medical examiner.

His lawyer, Joseph Feldman, said Copenhaver died surrounded by loved ones, though the statement did not confirm whether his death was directly linked to the rally injuries.

In June, Copenhaver and his wife, Marianne, sued the federal government, alleging failures by the Secret Service and the Department of Homeland Security to provide adequate security. The lawsuit described his wounds as “debilitating, grievous, permanent and life‑altering.”

The family’s statement highlighted Copenhaver’s service as a veteran and his dedication to his country, while former President Trump described him as “a true American Patriot.”

Source: ABC News. Photo: Phil Evenden / Pexels.