Less than 24 hours after the shocking shooting at the Trump Rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, the only spectator who was killed has been identified as Corey Comperatore of Buffalo Township.
In a press conference on Sunday, July 14, Pennsylvania Governor, Josh Shapiro, confirmed that Comperatore, who served as a fire chief for Buffalo Township was shot and killed by the previously identified sniper, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks.
“Corey was a girl dad,” Shapiro explained, per CNN. The governor then stated that Comperatore was a firefighter who went to church every Sunday. “Corey loved his community. Most especially, Corey loved his family.”
Shapiro also stated that Comperatore was an “avid supporter” of President Trump and was so excited to be at the rally on Saturday.
“I asked Corey’s wife if it would be okay for me to share that we spoke. She said ‘yes,’” Shapiro continued. “She also asked that I share with all of you that Corey died a hero. Corey dove on his family to protect them last night at this rally.”
The governor further announced that he has directed flags be flown at half-staff in Comperatore’s memory.
President Joe Biden released a statement expressing his condolences to Comperatore’s family. “We also extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who was killed,” the president stated. “He was a father, he was protecting his family from the bullets being fired when he lost his life. God love him. We are also praying for the full recovery of those who were injured.”
Two other spectators at the Trump rally were reportedly injured in the incident. The presidential candidate also was shot in the right ear before Secret Service agents quickly escorted him off the stage.
Crooks was killed seconds later. His motive for the attack remains unknown.
A GoFundMe For The Trump Rally Victims Quickly Surpasses $2.1 Million
Meanwhile, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched for the Trump rally victims and their families. More than $2.1 million has been raised through over 29,600 donations.
“President Donald Trump has authorized this account as a place for donations to the supporters and families wounded or killed in [June 13th’s] brutal and horrific assassination attempt,” the campaign’s description reads. “All donations will be directed to these proud Americans as they grieve and recover. May God bless and unite our nation.”
Among those who donated to the fundraiser was avid Trump supporter, Kid Rock. He pledged $50,000. Former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy also donated $30,000.