2 spectators injured at Trump rally released from hospital

Two spectators who were seriously injured at former President Donald Trump’s campaign rally in Pennsylvania earlier this month were home recovering Tuesday, a hospital spokesperson told USA TODAY.

James Copenhaver, 74, and David “Jake” Dutch, 57, were taken to Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh after being wounded by gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks on the grounds of the Butler Farm Show on July 13.

Crooks opened fire shortly after 6 p.m., killing 50-year-old contestant Corey Comperatore and wounding Trump in the ear. A Secret Service sniper on another roof fatally shot Crooks, authorities said.

Copenhaver, of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, was released from the hospital Friday, Allegheny General Hospital spokesman Bill Toland told USA TODAY.

Dutch, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, was released on July 17, Toland confirmed Tuesday.

According to a statement from Allegheny Health Network, reported by KDKA-TV, Copenhaver’s family thanked doctors and nurses for their help and said the other victims of the shooting were in their prayers.

“Jim would especially like to thank the first responders, medics and hospital staff who provided him with initial and ongoing care,” the statement said. “He is praying for a safe and speedy recovery for all of them.”

Fundraising for Trump rally injuries and deaths tops $6.5 million

A Trump-backed GoFundMe page launched to solicit donations for rally participants who were injured or killed in the shooting had raised more than $6.5 million as of Tuesday.

More than 70,000 people donated to the fundraiser, which was started by Meredith ORourke of Tallahassee. It initially had a goal of $1 million.

Notable large donations included $50,000 from musician Kid Rock, $30,000 from former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy and $15,000 from conservative political commentator Ben Shapiro.

Contributed by: Victoria Moorwood with the Cincinnati Enquirer

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her at X @nataliealund.