POLITICS

Man shot and wounded during Trump assassination attempt in Butler dies

PUBLISHED Sep 24, 2026, 7:56 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 30

Left 20%

Center 63%

Right 17%

Sources: 30

James Copenhaver, a 76-year-old survivor who was shot and wounded during the July 13, 2024, assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, has died. Copenhaver passed away at Allegheny Health Network’s West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh, according to family representatives and local medical examiner records. During the 2024 campaign rally attack, Copenhaver sustained severe wounds to his triceps and abdomen, resulting in long-term medical complications, internal trauma, and ongoing surgeries. In June 2026, he and his wife filed a federal lawsuit against the United States government and the Secret Service, alleging inadequate security measures at the event. Copenhaver, a resident of Moon Township, is remembered by local community members for his civic engagement. The family statement did not explicitly confirm whether his death was directly caused by complications from the injuries sustained during the shooting over two years prior.

By Yusra M. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On July 13 2024 James Copenhaver is shot and wounded during the assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania.
On July 14 2024 Copenhaver undergoes medical treatment for severe triceps and abdominal wounds.
2026-06 — Copenhaver and his wife file a federal lawsuit against the United States government over security failures.
On September 23 2026 Copenhaver passes away at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh at age 76.
On September 24 2026 Legal representatives and medical examiners confirm the passing of Copenhaver.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Renews public scrutiny and media attention surrounding federal security protocols and Secret Service performance during the 2024 Butler campaign rally.
Possible long-term US impact: May influence ongoing civil litigation filed by survivors against federal agencies regarding security lapses.
Most affected groups: Copenhaver family, legal representatives, and individuals monitoring federal accountability and political security.
Reader priority: Understanding the verified details of Copenhaver's passing and the status of related federal legal proceedings.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 30
Right Leaning:: 5
Left Leaning:: 6
Neutral:: 19

Explain Framing

Left: Focuses on the long-term human toll of the political violence and highlights the federal lawsuit regarding security failures and government accountability. Center: Emphasizes neutral chronological reporting of James Copenhaver's passing, medical details, and background context without partisan commentary. Right: Frames the event as a tragic ongoing reminder of the threats faced by conservative rallies, honoring the victims and emphasizing accountability for security lapses.