Second spectator injured in Trump campaign rally shooting released from hospital
Two spectators critically injured at former President Donald Trump's campaign rally in Pennsylvania earlier this month were home recovering Tuesday, a hospital spokesperson told USA TODAY.
James Copenhaver, 74, and David “Jake” Dutch, 57, were transported to Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh after being wounded July 13 by gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks on the grounds of the Butler Farm Show.
Crooks opened fire shortly after 6 p.m., killing rally attendee Corey Comperatore, 50, and wounding Trump in the ear. A Secret Service sniper on another roof fatally shot Crooks, authorities say.
Copenhaver, of Moon Township of Pennsylvania, was discharged from the hospital Friday, Allegheny General Hospital spokesperson Bill Toland told USA TODAY.
Dutch, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, was released on July 17, Toland confirmed Tuesday.
According to a statement from Allegheny Health Network reported by KDKA-TV, Copenhaver's family thanked doctors and nurses for their aide and said the other shooting victims were in his prayers.
“Jim would like to especially thank the first responders, medics, and hospital staff who have provided him with initial and continuing care,” the statement reads. “He prays for a safe and speedy recovery for them all.”
Fundraiser to help those injured, killed at Trump rally surpasses $6.5 million
A Trump-endorsed GoFundMe page launched seeking donations for rally attendees injured or killed in the shooting had raised more than $6.5 million as of Tuesday.
More than 70,000 people had donated to the fundraiser, created by Meredith ORourke of Tallahassee. Initially it had a goal of $1 million.
Notable large donations included $50,000 from musician Kid Rock, $30,000 from former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, and $15,000 from conservative political commentator Ben Shapiro.
Contributing: Victoria Moorwood with the Cincinnati Enquirer
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.