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.”
David Dutch, a 57-year-old Marine veteran, was struck twice during the attack—once in the chest and once in the liver. He underwent multiple surgeries and was placed in a medically induced coma. According to the Marine Corps League’s (MCL) Department of Pennsylvania, Dutch spent 11 days in Allegheny General Hospital before being discharged. In a statement, he credited the first responders and medical professionals for saving his life. “I am forever grateful to the brave men and women, including police officers, medics, the life flight crew, and the medical team at Allegheny General Hospital, who saved my life and continue to support my recovery.”
Both men’s presence at the inauguration underscores their resilience and serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the turbulent 2024 campaign.
Dutch and Copenhaver Invited to Attend Trump’s Inauguration Following 2024 Rally Attack
According to a Fox News report, James Copenhaver and David Dutch, who were critically injured during the July 2024 assassination attempt on Donald Trump, have been invited to attend the president-elect’s inauguration next week.
In a joint statement issued through their attorney, Joseph Feldman, the two men expressed their gratitude. “James and David are deeply appreciative of President Trump and his team for inviting them to the Inauguration weekend. They are honored to take part in the festivities alongside the incoming administration and other distinguished guests.” Feldman noted that Trump and his team have maintained consistent communication with the victims’ families, showing genuine concern for Copenhaver and Dutch’s recovery. “They have been nothing short of spectacular in keeping an open line of communication and supporting James and David through their long road to recovery,” Feldman added.
Both men had the chance to meet and shake hands with the president-elect following his historic comeback victory in November. “They will forever be connected by the tragic events of July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania,” Feldman said.
Honoring a Fallen Hero
Trump has also maintained close ties with the family of Corey Comperatore, a retired firefighter who was killed during the attack while shielding his daughters from gunfire. Comperatore was struck in the head during the second volley of shots as he protected his family. Despite the immediate efforts of Dr. Jim Sweetland, an emergency room physician who was in the crowd, Comperatore succumbed to his injuries.
The president-elect has honored Comperatore’s heroism on multiple occasions. During his Republican National Convention speech, Comperatore’s firefighting gear was displayed on stage as a tribute, and when Trump returned to Butler in October, a seat was symbolically reserved for the fallen supporter. Trump also met privately with Comperatore’s widow, Helen, and their two daughters, Allyson and Kaylee, before paying tribute to the family during his rally.
“He was absolutely a hero,” Helen said in an interview with WTAE. “He saved his daughters, and he was just the best man. We were married for 29 years, and he meant everything to us.”
Allyson, recalling the events of that tragic day, shared, “I was the one my dad threw down to protect. As he shielded me, he was shot and fell on top of me. In that moment, I tried to take care of him.”
Seeking Justice
The Comperatore family has since hired a private attorney to investigate the circumstances leading up to the July 13 rally. “I want justice for my husband, and I won’t stop until I get it,” Helen stated firmly.
As the inauguration approaches, the presence of Copenhaver, Dutch, and the continued support for the Comperatore family underscore the resilience and sacrifice of those affected by the tragic events in Butler. Their participation serves as a reminder of the profound impact the rally attack had on Trump’s campaign and the nation.
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