Man shot during Trump assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, dies

James Copenhaver, one of three people shot during an assassination attempt on Donald Trump at a campaign rally, has died.

He was in the stands during the event in Butler, Pennsylvania, on 13 July 2024, when a 20-year-old gunman opened fire from a nearby rooftop.

The assassination attempt on the then-presidential candidate, grazed Mr Trump's right ear with one bullet.

Mr Copenhaver was struck in the arm and the abdomen, inflicting wounds that left him with lingering injuries and walking with a cane.

His lawyer, Joseph Feldman, announced he had died surrounded by loved ones in a statement released on behalf of his family. Mr Copenhaver was 76.

"James's dedication to this great country was a defining part of his life," the statement said.

"As a veteran, he proudly served our nation in the armed forces, and his love of country never wavered.

"James was a true American patriot who believed deeply in the freedoms and ideals upon which this nation was founded, and he embodied the very best traits of our great nation."

It was not specified if Mr Copenhaver died because of the injuries he sustained in the shooting.

He underwent several surgeries, including a transection of his colon, and he had lingering kidney and other damage, including a loss of feeling in his leg.

Mr Trump also paid tribute to Mr Copenhaver on Thursday, describing him as a "true American Patriot".

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

More from Sky News:
Macklemore plans Free Palestine Tour
Trump's media ban overturned

Mr Copenhaver and his wife, Marianne, sued the federal government in June, alleging that the Secret Service and Department of Homeland Security had "utterly failed" to provide appropriate security at the rally.

Two other attendees at the rally were also shot - David Dutch, who survived, and Corey Comperatore, who shielded his family from gunfire and was killed.

(c) Sky News 2026: Man shot during Trump assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, dies