BUTLER, Pa. (KDKA) – A bystander who was killed at a shooting at a meeting for former President Donald Trump on Saturday has been identified as Corey Comperatore. He was shot while trying to shield his family from gunfire, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said at a news conference Sunday.
“Corey was the best of us,” Shapiro said. “Corey died a hero. Corey showed up last night to protect his family. Corey was a girl dad. Corey was a firefighter. Corey went to church every Sunday. Corey loved his community.”
Trump was also wounded in the shooting and two others were seriously injured and rushed to the hospital.
Pennsylvania Rep. Marci Mustello (R-Butler) released a statement Sunday, as Comperatore was his constituent.
“It is with great sadness that I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends and community of Corey Comperatore, who has left us far too soon. Corey was a dedicated public servant, serving as Fire Chief for Buffalo Township Fire Company, and was a beloved member of our Butler County community.
“His devotion to his wife and two daughters, and his unwavering dedication to his role as fire chief, exemplified his remarkable character. My heart breaks for his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time, and I join the community in mourning his loss. Corey, a true American hero, sacrificed his life to protect his family.
“May the memory of Corey Comperatore be a blessing and a reminder of the selfless service he provided to all of us.”
Thomas Matthew Crooks identified as the shooter
The shooter was identified as a 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park. The U.S. Secret Service said he was shot dead by a Secret Service sniper.
Police told CBS News that Crooks opened fire with a semi-automatic AR-style rifle and that the ATF is currently tracking the weapon.
They also said the gun Crooks used was legally purchased and registered to his father, Mathew Crooks.
Suspicious devices were found in Crooks’ vehicle. He had a piece of commercially available equipment that appeared to be capable of initiating these devices.
