Firefighter Corey Comperatore Identified As Man Killed At Trump Rally Trying To Shield Family From Bullets

Corey Comperatore, 50, was killed while shielding his family members from gunfire during the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump, according to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D). The shooting took place as thousands of supporters gathered for the outdoor rally in Butler.

Authorities reported that shots were fired from the roof of a nearby building. Comperatore, who Shapiro described as an “avid supporter” of Trump, was struck in the head and died at the scene.

Comperatore was a plastics manufacturing employee and volunteer firefighter. He attended the event with his family. His sister, Dawn Comperatore Schafer, confirmed his identity. She learned of her brother’s death through news reports.

“Corey was a girl, Dad. Corey was a firefighter. Corey went to church every Sunday. Corey loved his community. Most especially, Corey loved his family,” Shapiro said, showing Comperatore’s dedication to his roles as a father and community member.

Dr. James Sweetland, an emergency room physician at the rally, attempted to provide medical assistance but could not revive Comperatore. The shooting also left two other attendees critically wounded.

Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Col. Christopher Paris assured the public that law enforcement agencies are working together to investigate the shooting. “These victims and their families are certainly in our thoughts today,” Paris said.

The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of support, with a verified GoFundMe campaign raising over $3 million for the victims’ families by Sunday afternoon.

President Joe Biden offered his condolences to Comperatore’s family, stating, “We also extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who was killed. He was a father; he was protecting his family from the bullets being fired when he lost his life. God love him.”

The shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was killed by Secret Service agents shortly after the assault began.