BUTLER, Pennsylvania — In a shocking turn of events, former President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday. The incident, which resulted in the death of one spectator and the suspected gunman, has sent shockwaves across the world.
The rally, held at Butler Farms, began with Trump taking the stage to address his supporters. However, just minutes into his speech, chaos erupted as gunshots rang out. Trump was struck in the right ear by a bullet, causing him to seek cover behind the podium. Secret Service agents swiftly reacted, shielding the former president and urging him to take cover.
Eyewitnesses reported multiple rounds of gunfire, with attendees panicking and seeking shelter. The suspected shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was positioned on a nearby rooftop, armed with an AR-style rifle. Law enforcement sources revealed that Crooks fired as many as eight rounds before being neutralized by snipers from Trump’s Secret Service detail.
Tragically, one spectator seated behind Trump lost their life in the attack, while two others sustained critical injuries. The injured victims, identified as David Dutch and James Copenhaver, have since been upgraded to stable condition, according to the Pennsylvania State Police.
Following the incident, Trump was swiftly escorted off the stage and transported to Butler Memorial Hospital, approximately 11 miles away. A statement released by his Secret Service detail confirmed that the former president was safe and undergoing medical evaluation.
President Joe Biden condemned the attack, expressing gratitude to the Secret Service for ensuring Trump’s safety. He emphasized the need for unity in the face of such violence, stating that there is no place for it in America.
In a statement released on his Truth Social platform, Trump recounted the harrowing experience, acknowledging the bullet that pierced his right ear. He expressed gratitude to the Secret Service and law enforcement for their rapid response and extended condolences to the family of the deceased and the injured.
Later in the evening, Trump departed Pennsylvania for New Jersey under the protection of the Secret Service and Pennsylvania State Police. The FBI identified the suspected shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, while Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro identified the victim who lost their life as Corey Comperatore, a hero who sacrificed himself to protect his family.
