Pennsylvania man killed at Trump rally, Corey Comperatore, protected his family when shots were fired

BUTLER, Pa. (KDKA) – A bystander who was killed during the Shooting at a rally The man responsible for former President Donald Trump’s shooting on Saturday has been identified as Corey Comperatore. He was shot as he tried to protect his family from the gunfire, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said at a news conference on Sunday.

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

Trump and two other people were also seriously injured in the shooting 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 was identified as a 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park. The US Secret Service said he was shot 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 down the weapon.

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

Suspicious devices were found in Crooks’ vehicle. He had a commercially available device with him that apparently enabled him to activate these devices.