BUTLER, USA — Firefighter Corey Comperatore was killed during an attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday night, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro confirmed on Sunday, July 15, 2024.
Comperatore was among the thousands attending the rally, part of Trump’s 2024 reelection campaign.
According to Governor Shapiro, he died while trying to shield his family from the gunfire.
Authorities have identified the gunman as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, who was killed by Secret Service agents at the scene.
The FBI is investigating the attack as a act of domestic terrorism.
“I just spoke to Corey’s wife and Corey’s two daughters,” Shapiro said in a statement on Sunday. “Corey was a girl dad. Corey was a firefighter. Corey went to church every Sunday. Corey loved his community. Most especially, Corey loved his family.”
Shapiro added, “Corey was an avid supporter of the former president and was so excited to be there last night with him in the community. I asked Corey’s wife if it would be okay for me to share that we spoke. She said ‘yes.’ She also asked that I share with all of you that Corey died a hero. Corey dove on his family to protect them last night at this rally.”
The incident left one person dead and two critically injured, according to Pennsylvania State Police.
Former President Trump was grazed by a bullet to the ear, resulting in his face being covered in blood. He later confirmed on social media that he survived the attempt on his life.
The investigation into the shooting continues as authorities work to understand the motive behind the attack and whether Crooks acted alone.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
