On July 13, 2024, former President Donald Trump was shot at during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. A man fired multiple shots toward the stage where Donald Trump was standing, critically injuring two and killing one spectator. Donald Trump was hurriedly rushed off the stage with blood dripping from his ear but was later pronounced "fine."
What Happened to the President:
As shots rang out, Mr. Trump quickly ducked down while rally members shouted in panic. Secret Service agents swiftly moved to evacuate Donald Trump from the stage as a bullet grazed his ear. Rather than leaving immediately, Trump halted the agents, raised his fist in defiance, and began chanting "Fight, fight, fight!" Later, in a statement, Trump recounted, "I immediately sensed something was wrong when I heard a whizzing sound, followed by gunfire, and then felt the bullet graze my skin. There was considerable bleeding, which made me realize the severity of the situation."
Background on the Shooter:
Federal law enforcement identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Thomas, described as a shy young man, was fatally shot by a Secret Service sniper during the assassination attempt. Those who knew him expressed shock, as Thomas was a graduate of Bethel Park High School who worked at a local nursing home after attending Community College of Allegheny. He was an honors student with no criminal record. Voting records indicated Thomas was a Republican who had donated to liberal campaign groups. Authorities reported that Crooks had purchased ammunition, including odd devices found in his car, on the day of the rally. A motive for his actions remains unclear.
Lives Lost:
Tragically, 50-year-old Corey Comperatore died while shielding his family from the bullets during the attempted assassination. He bravely dove in front of his family to protect them. His daughter, Allyson, shared on social media that her father pushed her mother and herself to the ground and "shielded my body from the bullet that came at us." Corey was remembered as a hero and a loving father who sacrificed his life to save his family. A GoFundMe campaign initiated after the shooting has raised over $2.8 million to support the victims.
In All:
In the wake of this tragic incident, communities across the nation have rallied in support of the victims and their families, demonstrating resilience and unity in the face of adversity. Corey Comperatore's selfless act of courage serves as a poignant reminder of the strength of human spirit and the unwavering bond of family. As investigations continue into the motives behind the attack, efforts to heal and support those affected remain paramount, underscoring the importance of coming together as a nation to denounce violence and uphold the values of peace and solidarity.