Full Breakdown
Former Trump Rally Shooting Survivor James Copenhaver Dies at 76
By Drooid · · How we work
The Fatal Outcome
James Copenhaver, a 76-year-old veteran wounded in the July 13, 2024 attempted assassination of Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, died on September 23, 2026 at Allegheny Health Network’s West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh. The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the death but did not disclose a cause.
The 2024 Butler Rally Shooting
On July 13, 2024, 20-year-old Thomas Crooks opened fire from a rooftop at the Butler Farm Show complex while Trump addressed a crowd. The attack injured Trump’s right ear, killed firefighter Corey Comperatore, seriously wounded Marine veteran David Dutch, and struck Copenhaver twice—once in the left triceps and once in the abdomen. Crooks was killed by a Secret Service counter-sniper.
Injuries and Long-Term Effects
Copenhaver required multiple surgeries, including colon transection and kidney repair. He suffered permanent nerve damage, loss of feeling in his left leg, and retained bullet fragments near his spine. He later used a cane and, for a period, a colostomy bag.
Legal Action
In June 2024, Copenhaver and his wife Marianne filed a federal lawsuit in the Western District of Pennsylvania alleging negligence by the U.S. Secret Service. The complaint seeks more than $150,000 in damages and remains pending.
Official Reactions
Family attorney Joseph A. Feldman said Copenhaver died “surrounded by his loved ones” and praised his “dedication to this great country.” Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro extended prayers to the family and condemned the July 2024 political violence. Rep. Lisa McClain, chair of the House Republican Conference, called him “critically wounded” and expressed condolences.
Personal Remembrances
Copenhaver recalled looking at the Jumbotron when “my sleeve has been yanked,” and described the second shot as striking “soft material,” underscoring the lasting physical toll of the attack.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Some sources reported Copenhaver had “fully recovered” after the shooting, while others emphasized ongoing pain, permanent nerve damage, and bullet fragments. The medical examiner has not released a cause of death, leaving it unclear whether his passing is directly linked to the 2024 injuries.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Jim endured unimaginable hardship with strength and perseverance.” — House Republicans
- “James’s dedication to this great country was a defining part of his life,” — Joseph A. Feldman, family lawyer
- “I was standing up looking at the Jumbotron behind me, and next thing I know my sleeve has been yanked,” — Jim Copenhaver
- “Seemingly out of nowhere, I was shot in my left triceps. I turned to Randy and said, ‘I think I have been shot,’ when I was then hit a second time in my left abdomen.” — Jim Copenhaver