A year has passed since a tragic event unfolded at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where an attempt on then-presidential candidate Donald Trump’s life resulted in the death of Corey Comperatore and left two others severely injured. The families of James Copenhaver, David Dutch, and the late Corey Comperatore are still grappling with the aftermath of that fateful day on July 13, 2024. Despite the time that has passed, they continue to seek answers and accountability for the tragedy that forever altered their lives.
Dawn Comperatore Schafer, Corey’s sister, expressed her sorrow and anger about the incident, stating, “You missed Trump, but you got my big brother.” The gunman, Thomas Crooks, was killed when officers returned fire at the rally. However, the loss of Corey Comperatore remains a deep wound for his family, who describe his death as an assassination.
Corey Comperatore was a man of many roles: a former fire chief, a loving husband, and a devoted father to two daughters. His family lovingly referred to him as the “Golden Boy,” a testament to his character and the high regard in which they held him. Alongside his sister Schafer, Corey’s other sister, Kelly Comperatore Meeder, and their mother, Karen Schafer Bird, continue to mourn his absence.
Comperatore had a passion for fishing, often spending quiet mornings alone or with his wife, which his sisters described as his personal time for prayer and reflection. Known as the “ultimate girl dad,” he took great pride in being actively involved in his daughters’ lives. The family’s loss has left a void that is felt deeply in their hearts and daily lives.
The events that led to Corey’s death have left the Comperatore family with unanswered questions. They are particularly concerned about what they perceive as negligence on the part of those responsible for security at the rally. Dawn Schafer, who works as an insurance agent, stated, “I know about negligence. There were so many morale hazards and moral hazards.”
Corey’s sister, Kelly Comperatore Meeder, questioned why Donald Trump was allowed to take the stage that day despite known threats. She wonders why those responsible for his safety didn’t take the necessary precautions. “We know that there was inadequate security. That’s a given,” she remarked, highlighting the family’s frustration and desire for accountability.
David Dutch and James Copenhaver, both survivors of the incident, also harbor similar concerns about the security measures in place that day. The injuries they sustained have had lasting impacts on their lives. Dutch, a Marine Corps veteran, was struck in the abdomen, while Copenhaver, a National Guard veteran, was hit in the arm and colon.
Dutch described the chaos and confusion during the shooting, recalling how he urged others to take cover. “It felt like somebody hit me with a sledgehammer in my chest,” he recounted. Both Dutch and Copenhaver continue to receive treatment for their physical injuries and the psychological trauma they endured.
Copenhaver inadvertently captured video footage of the shooter, Thomas Crooks, before the attack began. The footage showed Crooks on the roof of a nearby building, a location that was not secured by law enforcement at the time. This has raised questions about the adequacy of the security perimeter around the rally.
The shooting has had a lasting effect on Copenhaver’s daily life. He has not been able to lie on his stomach for a year and struggles with mobility. His family has been a pillar of support, helping him navigate the challenges he faces as a result of his injuries.
Dutch, who also suffers from ongoing physical limitations, recalled how he and a friend were initially told they were in the wrong location before the shooting. “The only requirement, you got to be loud,” he remembered being told. Despite the circumstances, Dutch and his friend were assured they could stay, only to become unintended targets of the attack.
Since the shooting, Copenhaver has faced challenges in his daily activities, particularly with mobility. His wife and son have been instrumental in assisting him with these tasks. Dutch, too, has encountered difficulties in performing home maintenance work, further illustrating the long-term impact of the incident on the survivors’ lives.
