James Copenhaver, one of the two individuals critically injured in the July 13 shooting targeting former President Trump, expressed his sorrow over the political division in the United States, according to his attorney Joseph Feldman. In an interview, Feldman conveyed Copenhaver’s sentiments while he continues his recovery.
A chilling video captured by James Copenhaver, one of the victims critically injured in the July 13 assassination attempt against former President Trump, reveals a mysterious figure moving across the roof of the American Glass Research (AGR) building just minutes before the… pic.twitter.com/tK2Pmz1D4b
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Copenhaver, 74, who suffered injuries to his arm and abdomen, described the incident as an “unnecessary” tragedy. Feldman, speaking on behalf of Copenhaver, highlighted the increasing political divide that led to such violence.
Copenhaver appreciates the efforts of the medical staff, emergency responders, and law enforcement who assisted him post-incident. Despite his injuries, he remains steadfast in his support for Trump and insists on exercising his rights without fear.
Copenhaver, a resident of Moon Township, attended the rally with his best friend. He was positioned to Trump’s left when the shots were fired. A video he recorded at 6:08 p.m. shows a figure moving on the rooftop of the AGR building, where the shooter, Thomas Crooks, was located. Gunfire erupted at 6:11 p.m.
At the moment of the shooting, Copenhaver and others were looking at a screen displaying immigration statistics. He felt pain in his arm and later realised he had been shot twice. The scene was chaotic, with attendees in shock and confusion.
Copenhaver is still processing the gravity of the event and his involvement in this historical moment. He had a phone conversation with Trump from his hospital bed, which he found comforting and enjoyable.
Currently, Copenhaver and his wife are focusing on his recovery, grateful for the support from family, friends, medical staff, and well-wishers nationwide. They celebrated their 51st anniversary while he was still hospitalised.
David Dutch, 57, was also critically injured and has since been released from Allegheny General Hospital. Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old former fire chief, died protecting his family during the incident.
The FBI continues to investigate the motive behind Thomas Crooks’ actions. Crooks accessed the roof via HVAC equipment and piping, armed with an AR-15-style rifle and a rangefinder. Law enforcement had noted a suspicious person near the rally site about 90 minutes before the shooting, according to text messages revealed by Senator Chuck Grassley.