On July 13, 2024, a 20-year-old gunman opened fire on a campaign event for former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania. The attack, widely described as an assassination attempt left three spectators wounded and one fatality. Among the injured was 76-year-old veteran James Copenhaver who spent the next two years battling the aftereffects of his injuries.
The Butler shooting and its immediate aftermath
Witnesses recall a sudden volley of bullets from a rooftop, striking the former president’s right ear and raining down on the bleachers. Copenhaver was hit twice—once in the arm and once in the abdomen. The wounds required emergency surgery, including a transection of his colon, and left him with chronic kidney damage and a loss of sensation in his leg. He was discharged from the hospital but never fully recovered, eventually relying on a cane for mobility.
Medical odyssey and lasting health impact
Over the following months, James Copenhaver underwent multiple operations to address internal injuries and recurring infections. Doctors reported that the abdominal trauma caused permanent scar tissue, while the kidney impairment limited his ability to filter blood efficiently. The family noted that, despite the extensive medical care, he continued to experience fatigue, pain, and periodic hospitalizations. In statements released by his attorney, the injuries were characterized as “debilitating, grievous, permanent and life-altering.”
Legal action against the federal government
In June 2024, Copenhaver and his wife, Marianne, filed a lawsuit alleging that the Secret Service and the Department of Homeland Security failed to provide adequate security at the Butler rally. The complaint argued that the agencies “utterly failed” to anticipate the threat and to protect attendees, exposing them to unnecessary danger. The suit seeks compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and the long-term impact on Copenhaver’s quality of life.
Final days and public tributes
James Copenhaver died on Wednesday at Allegheny Health Network’s West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh, surrounded by family members. His attorney, Joseph Feldman, confirmed the death but did not specify whether it was directly linked to the 2024 shooting injuries. The family released a heartfelt statement describing Copenhaver as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a patriot who “instilled the values of hard work, integrity and service.” Former President Trump posted on social media, calling Copenhaver “a true American Patriot” and lamenting the loss as a “tremendous loss.”
Political reactions and broader context
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro condemned the violence, emphasizing that “political violence is never okay” and urging a reduction in hateful rhetoric. House Republicans issued a statement praising Copenhaver’s resilience, noting that he “endured unimaginable hardship with strength and perseverance.” The incident remains a stark reminder of the security challenges surrounding high-profile political events, especially in a polarized climate where threats to public figures have become increasingly frequent.
As the nation reflects on the legacy of James Copenhaver his story underscores the personal cost of political violence and the enduring impact on survivors and their families. While legal battles continue, the tributes from loved ones and public figures highlight a broader conversation about safety, patriotism, and the responsibility of governmental agencies to protect citizens at large gatherings.
