US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump stand after posing with Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, at the White House ahead of a state dinner in Washington, D.C., US, September 24, 2026. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein
President Donald Trump mourned the loss of Jim Copenhaver, who died Wednesday, someone Trump described as an "American patriot."
Copenhaver was shot and injured while attending the infamous 2024 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. He was in the bleachers during the event when the 20-year-old opened fire on the crowd, striking Trump in the ear, The Guardian reported. He was shot in the arm and the abdomen and was left with injuries that caused him to walk with a cane.
"Jim Copenhaver, a true American Patriot, has passed away — A tremendous loss!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.
"More than two years ago in Butler, Pennsylvania, a crazed gunman attempted to stifle our America First Movement," he continued. "Instead, Jim and so many other wonderful Patriots who love our Country, stood united in defense of our shared values of Freedom, Liberty, and Justice. After being wounded while protecting his family, Jim showed tremendous bravery, courageously continuing to FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT, and maintaining a positive spirit despite unimaginable hardships. His indelible legacy of love and devotion will forever endure. Our hearts and prayers are with the Copenhaver family, especially his incredible wife Marianne."