Jim Copenhaver, one of the two audience members wounded at President Donald Trump’s July 13, 2024, rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, died on Wednesday. Copenhaver, 76, sustained serious injuries when he was hit by two bullets, one striking his triceps and the other causing significant damage to his colon, resulting in lasting nerve damage. His death was first reported by Headline USA Editor Ken Silva on X, who noted that Copenhaver had been dealing with permanent injuries from the incident.
The House Republicans’ X account confirmed Copenhaver’s death and expressed condolences. "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Jim Copenhaver, who was gravely wounded in the horrific shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania," the GOP account stated. They acknowledged his strength and perseverance through his hardships and offered prayers for his family.
Neither the House Republicans nor Silva provided details on whether Copenhaver’s death was directly related to his injuries from the rally.
Copenhaver had filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government in June, claiming that his injuries were due to the negligence of the United States Secret Service and the Department of Homeland Security. During the rally, Copenhaver was shot by 20-year-old Thomas Crooks, who had positioned himself on a nearby roof. Crooks also shot and killed firefighter Corey Comperatore, injured Navy veteran David Dutch, and narrowly missed Trump himself before being killed by a counter sniper.
Both Dutch and Copenhaver were critically injured and required extensive surgery to survive. Copenhaver reflected on his life in the foreword of Silva’s book, *The Trump Assassination Plots: What the Investigations Missed and Why it Matters*, released in March. He expressed his thoughts on legacy and the unexpected nature of his involvement in a historical event, stating, "I guess that’s the price of making history." He also detailed ongoing health issues stemming from his injuries, including reduced mobility in his left leg.