PITTSBURGH, PA — James Copenhaver, one of three people shot while attending a 2024 campaign rally for then-presidential candidate Donald Trump, has died.
Copenhaver, 76, died Wednesday at Allegheny General Hospital, according to the Allegheny County Medical Examiner's Office.
Trump paid tribute to Copenhaver on his Truth social media platform on Thursday.
"After being wounded while protecting his family, Jim showed tremendous bravery, courageously continuing to FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT, and maintaining a positive spirit despite unimaginable hardships," Trump stated. "His indelible legacy of love and devotion will forever endure."
Copenhaver was in the bleachers during the Trump event when Thomas Crooks began shooting from a nearby rooftop, grazing Trump's ear with a bullet.
Copenhaver was struck in the arm and in the abdomen, wounds that left him with lingering injuries.
Two other rally attendees were also shot. Corey Comperatore, who was killed while shielding his family; and David Dutch, who survived.
Crooks, 20, was shot and killed by Secret Service agents.
A statement issued on behalf of the family by Copenhaver's attorney said that he died surrounded by loved ones.
"James's dedication to this great country was a defining part of his life," the release stated. "As a veteran, he proudly served our nation in the armed forces, and his love of country never wavered.
"James was a true American patriot who believed deeply in the freedoms and ideals upon which this nation was founded, and he embodied the very best traits of our great nation."
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
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