Former rally shooting victim James Copenhaver dies at age 76

James Copenhaver, 76, died on Wednesday at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh, according to the Allegheny County Medical Examiner's Office. Copenhaver was among the victims seriously wounded when a gunman opened fire at the Butler Farm Show grounds minutes after President Donald Trump took the stage on July 13, 2024. The medical examiner's report did not list a cause of death.

Copenhaver, a resident of Moon Township and a veteran, had been hospitalized with major injuries alongside other victims, including David Dutch. His attorney, Joseph Feldman, said Copenhaver died surrounded by family, though the statement did not link his death directly to the rally injuries.

"Jim showed tremendous bravery, courageously continuing to FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT, and maintaining a positive spirit despite unimaginable hardships," President Trump wrote in a social-media post.

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Jim Copenhaver, who was gravely wounded in the horrific shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania. Jim endured unimaginable hardship with strength and perseverance. We join his family and loved ones in mourning his loss and praying for them during this difficult time. May he rest in peace," House Republicans posted on X.

"On behalf of the Republican Committee of Allegheny County, I want to offer our condolences and deepest sympathy to Mr. James Copenhaver’s family, who has asked for privacy during this difficult time. Mr. Copenhaver passed away September 23, 2026. He was a dedicated, elected Republican Committeeman from Moon Township, who was shot during President Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family," wrote committee chairman Brian Weismantle.

"Lori and I extend our prayers to James Copenhaver's loved ones — who now, as Corey Comperatore's family has faced for over two years — will have an empty seat at their dinner table. The political violence that occurred in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024 is never okay. I said it at the time in Butler and I say it again today: we all have a responsibility to take down the temperature, rise above hateful rhetoric, and search for a brighter future for this nation," Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro posted.

Copenhaver's family described him as a devoted husband, father and grandfather who valued hard work and service. No further medical details were released.