A US Marine veteran has been identified as one of the spectators injured during the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. David Dutch, 57, from New Kensington, was one of the three rally-goers shot when Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, opened fire on Saturday, according to the Marine Corps League of Pennsylvania.
The Marine Corps League’s District 8 vice commandant, Matt Popovich, confirmed Dutch’s identity on Sunday afternoon. Pennsylvania State Police have also identified 74-year-old James Copenhaver of Moon Township, PA, and Corey Comperatore, 50, of Sarver, PA, who was killed in the incident.
Dutch is currently listed in stable condition after initially being reported in critical condition with gunshot wounds to the liver and chest. He is in a medically-induced coma and is scheduled for a second surgery. Dutch serves as the commandant of the Westmoreland County Marines Detachment #1416, according to Marine Corps League of Pennsylvania Commandant and CEO Warren Griffin.
This is 74 year old James Copenhaver sustained “life-altering injuries” at the Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Pray for his recovery. pic.twitter.com/Arv5TjGTnE
— purplefroggal (@purplefroggalpa) July 17, 2024
Pennsylvania State Police Col. Christopher Paris expressed condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the ongoing collaboration with federal, state, and local partners in the investigation. Governor Josh Shapiro ordered flags across Commonwealth facilities to fly at half-staff in honor of Comperatore and extended prayers to the injured and their families.
David Dutch, a Marine Corps veteran who served from 1986 to 1992, participated in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. His service record includes awards such as the Combat Action Ribbon and the Southwest Asia Service Medal. Dutch was last assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines at Camp Pendleton, California.
Dutch’s sister confirmed his status as a Marine Corps veteran and mentioned his ongoing recovery. Community members, including neighbor William Pepper, have voiced support for Dutch, describing him as a helpful and kind individual.
The shooting occurred as Crooks fired towards the stage at Trump’s rally, resulting in the Secret Service rushing the former president off stage. Trump sustained visible injuries, with blood noted on his right ear. The Secret Service subsequently neutralized Crooks after the initial gunfire.
Expanded Coverage:
https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/17/politics/us-military-ends-pier-mission-gaza/index.html
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/u-s-military-recommends-permanently-dismantling-gaza-aid-pier/
