During a Donald Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Corey Comperatore was fatally shot while heroically shielding his family, tragically interrupting what was supposed to be an enthusiastic political gathering.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that Comperatore, a devoted father and firefighter, attended a rally for former President Donald Trump at the Butler Farm Showgrounds on Saturday, July 13, 2024. Tragically, the event took an unexpected turn when gunfire erupted only ten minutes into Trump’s speech.
Tragedy struck when Comperatore, in an act of ultimate sacrifice, used his body to protect his family from the gunfire.
His wife, Allyson Comperatore, later recounted the harrowing moment to reporters. “He shielded my body from the bullet that came at us. He loved his family. He truly loved us enough to take a real bullet for us,” she said.
The rally was packed with thousands of spectators, gathered in anticipation of Trump's speech which was scheduled ahead of the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Two other individuals, David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74, also suffered gunshot wounds during the incident.
They were subsequently taken to Allegheny General Hospital and reported to be in stable condition.
Amid the chaos, Trump himself sustained a minor injury, with a bullet grazing his right ear. He reassured the public about his condition through a brief statement online, affirming that he was "fine." The rally was immediately halted, and attendees were swiftly evacuated from the venue.
Governor Josh Shapiro pronounced a statewide honor by declaring flags to be flown at half-staff to remember Corey Comperatore, illustrating the state's collective mourning. Shapiro specifically highlighted Corey's multifaceted life, describing him as not only a girl-dad and firefighter but also a devout church-goer, reflecting the profound void his untimely departure has left in the community.
The community response was swift and heartfelt. The family, friends, and several first responder agencies, including numerous fire departments across the nation, extended their deepest sympathies and tributes to the Comperatore family.
Corey’s role as a former chief of the Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Company underscored his dedication to public service, which was remembered fondly by colleagues and acquaintances alike.
Kevin Rojek, the FBI's Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge, expressed condolences to the families of the victims, emphasizing the tragedy's impact on the community.
Furthermore, a GoFundee page established to support the Comperatore family witnessed an overwhelming wave of support, raising approximately $670,000, significantly surpassing the initial goal of $7,000.
Professionally, Corey served as an engineer at JSP International in Butler. His LinkedIn profile paints the picture of a committed professional who balanced a demanding career with a rich personal life that included his firefighting and family duties.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about safety at political events and the heroism displayed in times of crisis.
The admiration and sorrow expressed by political figures, family members, and fellow firefighters further attest to the significant impact Corey made both in life and death.
In conclusion, Corey Comperatore's heroic act has left a lasting impression, not just on his immediate family and community but across the nation. His memory will be championed by those who knew him and by many who have come to know of his selflessness in his final moments.