Pennsylvania man killed at Trump rally identified

One man was killed and two others seriously injured in a shooting at a rally hosted by former President Donald Trump on Saturday evening.

Shots were fired at the rally in Butler and Trump was forced off the stage after a bullet pierced the upper part of his right ear.

According to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, one of the victims was identified as Corey Comperatore.

“Corey was the very best of us,” Shapiro said in a press conference Sunday afternoon. “Corey died a hero. Corey threw himself at his family last night to protect them. Corey was a girl dad, Corey was a firefighter, Corey went to church every Sunday, Corey loved his community.”

According to the governor, Comperatore was shot while trying to protect his family from the gunfire.

Governor Shapiro said he ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in memory of Comperatore.

Two other spectators were seriously injured and taken to hospital.

Pennsylvania State Rep. Marci Mustello (R-Butler) issued a statement Sunday because Comperatore was her constituent.

“It is with profound sadness that I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends and community of Corey Comperatore, who left us far too soon. Corey was a dedicated public servant who served as Fire Chief of the Buffalo Township Fire Company, and he was a valued member of our Butler County community.

“His dedication to his wife and two daughters and his unwavering commitment 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. Corey was a true American hero and sacrificed his life to protect his family.

“May the memory of Corey Comperatore be a blessing and remind us of the selfless service he gave to all of us.”

Thomas Matthew Crooks identified as shooter

The shooter has since been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park. The US Secret Service said he was shot by a sniper.

Police told CBS News that Crooks opened fire with a semi-automatic AR-style rifle and that the ATF is currently tracking down the weapon.

They also said the gun used by Crooks was legally purchased and registered to his father, Mathew Crooks.

On Sunday, it was also announced that suspicious devices were found in Crooks’ vehicle. He had a commercially available device with him that apparently enabled him to activate these devices.

Crooks was killed by a Secret Service sniper at the rally, according to the agency.