Corey Comperatore
Donald Trump to Attend Firefighter Killed in Shooting Funeral
The incident has also led to increased scrutiny of the Secret Service's handling of the situation.
Freeport, PA — Former President Donald Trump is set to attend the private funeral of Corey Comperatore, a volunteer firefighter who tragically lost his life during an assassination attempt on Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The incident, which occurred on July 13, has left the community and the nation mourning the loss of a brave individual who sacrificed his life to protect his family.
Corey Comperatore, 50, was among the attendees at the rally when gunfire erupted from a nearby building. The assailant, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired multiple shots, one of which grazed Trump's right ear. Comperatore was fatally struck as he leapt to shield his family from the gunfire. Crooks was subsequently neutralized by Secret Service agents on the scene.
Comperatore, a former chief of the Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Company, has been hailed as a hero for his selfless actions. He spent his final moments protecting his wife and daughter from the gunfire, an act that has been widely praised by community members and officials alike. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro commended Comperatore’s bravery, stating, "His actions exemplify the highest ideals of public service and personal sacrifice."
The funeral proceedings for Comperatore will begin with a public visitation on Thursday at Laube Hall in Freeport, Pennsylvania. The visitation will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. A public procession is scheduled to start at 2 p.m., beginning at Freeport Park and concluding at Laube Hall. A private burial will follow the visitation.
On Friday, a private funeral service will take place at Cabot Methodist Church, where Comperatore was a longtime member. The service will include a procession of up to 500 fire trucks, a testament to his legacy as a respected firefighter and community leader.
Initially, there were conflicting reports regarding Trump's attendance at the funeral. However, it has been confirmed that Trump will be present at the private service on Friday. Trump, who is scheduled to accept his party’s nomination for president at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Thursday, will travel to Freeport for the funeral the following day.
Trump has expressed his condolences to Comperatore's widow, Helen, and assured her of his continued support. Helen Comperatore shared on Facebook that Trump was compassionate during their conversation and that she believed her husband's sacrifice was noble.
The community of Freeport and surrounding areas have come together to honor Comperatore’s memory. A candlelight vigil is planned for Wednesday evening at Lernerville Speedway in Buffalo Township. Additionally, a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe for Comperatore's family has raised over $1.2 million, reflecting the outpouring of support from across the nation.
Friends and colleagues remember Comperatore as a dedicated and fearless firefighter who always had a positive outlook on life. The Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Company is planning a memorial display to honor his contributions and legacy.
Comperatore’s death serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of political violence. His bravery in the face of danger has touched many, and his story has resonated deeply with people across the country. As the community gathers to mourn and remember, the funeral will stand as a solemn tribute to a man who gave his life in service to others.
In a time of political division, Comperatore's actions have united people in admiration for his heroism and selflessness. His legacy will continue to inspire and remind us of the profound impact one individual can have through acts of courage and sacrifice.