An attempted assassination was made on former president Donald Trump on Saturday, July 13th
A 20-year-old man attempted to take the life of former President Donald Trump while he was speaking at a campaign rally in Butler, PA. The shooter, identified as Thomas Crooks, was positioned on a rooftop approximately 130 yards away from the podium where Trump stood.
Crooks was able to fire multiple shots from his automatic-style rifle before he was eliminated by a Secret Service counter-sniper.
One bullet grazed Donald Trump’s ear, but otherwise, the politician made it out of the terrifying ordeal relatively unscathed. He even made his appearance at the Republican National Convention just two days later.
One man was killed, and two more were injured during the shooting
Tragically, 50-year-old Corey Comperatore lost his life in the shooting. Comperatore was a retired fire chief from Pennsylvania who was beloved by his family and neighbors. Former President Trump has since been in contact with the family, and crowdfunding efforts have raised an astounding amount of support for those affected.
57-year-old David Dutch and 74-year-old James Copenhaver also sustained gunshot wounds that required immediate medical attention. Local Police have reported that they are now in stable condition.
The shooting is currently under investigation, and a motive has not yet been determined.
John Hinckley, Jr., the man who shot Ronald Reagan, reacts to the recent shooting
On Monday (July 17), John Hinckley, Jr. took to Twitter to share his thoughts on the incident. He would have a unique perspective on the subject, given he is the man who shot President Ronald Reagan in 1981.
Ironically, Hinckley wrote:
“Violence is not the way to go. Give peace a chance.”
Violence is not the way to go. Give peace a chance.
— John Hinckley (@JohnHinckley20) July 17, 2024
The two shootings have eerie parallels, given that both gunmen shot at Republican presidents and each injured three people.
Hinkley spent four decades receiving psychiatric care and was released in 2022. He now resides in Williamsburg, VA, where he spends his time creating art and music.
The big time! pic.twitter.com/ChhXg2MuKL
— John Hinckley (@JohnHinckley20) March 23, 2023