Channel 11 is learning new details about James Copenhaver, the man wounded in the assassination attempt on then-presidential candidate Donald Trump in Butler and died just this week.
Channel 11 spoke with an author who published a book on the shooting in Butler and, through that project, got to know Copenhaver on a personal level.
The medical examiner did not release the cause of death, but did confirm James Copenhaver died in the hospital yesterday afternoon.
His family released a statement, saying:
“James and the Copenhaver family have been deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support they have received over the past two years. James faced every challenge with the same strength and resolve that defined his life.”
Copenhaver was 76 years old and was from Moon Township.
He was one of two people injured during the shooting in 2024.
Corey Comperatore was killed in the assassination attempt.
Months after the shooting, NBC News anchor Tom Llamas spoke with Copenhaver.
“When I saw part of my sleeve go away, and I heard psssssh. I mean, I heard it distinctly. I turned around to my friend and said, ' I think I was shot,’” Copenhaver. said.
Author of “The Trump Assassination Plots,” Ken Silva, described Copenhaver as strong and chipper.
“He still was having ongoing issues stemming from the fact that he still got actual bullet fragments close to his spine, so obviously it was a long, hard road for him to get back on his feet,” Silva said.
We also heard from politicians on both sides of the aisle.
House Republicans posted on social media, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Jim Copenhaver....Jim endured unimaginable hardship with strength and perseverance.”
Democratic governor Josh Shapiro extended his sympathies in a Facebook post:
“The political violence that occurred in Butler, Pennsylvania is never okay.”
According to a lawsuit filed on behalf of Copenhaver and his wife, he suffered damage to his colon and kidneys as well as tears to his left tricep.
It’s still not clear whether he died as a result of those injuries from the rally.
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