Donald Trump rally shooting victim David Dutch breaks silence over tragic assassination attempt

David Dutch, was one of the two Donald Trump's supporters who sustained injuries following an assassination attempt on the former President.

Published on: Aug 8, 2024, 15:18:39 IST

By Shweta Kukreti

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Donald Trump's two supporters sustained injuries following an assassination attempt on the former President during his campaign rally in Philadelphia. One of these supporters, David Dutch, has now spoken out for the first time since his discharge from the hospital.

David Dutch, a 57-year-old Marine, issued a statement through his lawyer on Wednesday night, thanking everyone for their support during his hospitalisation. (Facebook)

Dutch, a 57-year-old Marine, issued a statement through his lawyer on Wednesday night, thanking everyone for their support during his hospitalisation.

He received gunshot wounds to his chest and liver while he was standing behind the stage where Trump was speaking. He was initially placed in a medically-induced coma.

David Dutch and his family extend condolences to Comperatore's family

In a statement to Fox News, David and his wife, Sheree, expressed their profound gratitude for the tremendous amount of support they have received from friends and fellow Americans.

In addition, the Dutch family thanked the courageous men and women who saved his life, the medical staff at Allegheny General Hospital, the cops, the life flight crew, and those who are looking after him on his road to recovery.

They further extended condolences and prayers for the family of Corey Comperatore, who lost his life defending his wife and daughters from approaching gunfire during the rally and James Copenhaver, who was wounded by a bullet “while exercising his fundamental right to freely express his support for a political candidate at the rally”.

Also Read: Donald Trump hailed Kamala Harris' VP pick Tim Walz in 202p, 'excellent guy'

David Dutch hails Donald Trump

He then went to thank Trump, who did not back down in the face of danger from his fight to rebuild the United States and reestablish its status as the world's most powerful and economically sound country.

Dutch and Copenhaver, who suffered grave injuries, hired lawyers to “protect their best interests as they navigate the most challenging time of their lives”.

Copenhaver was struck in the arm and abdomen, according to his attorney, who stated that the man continues to recuperate at a rehabilitation facility.

A 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire at Trump's rally, killing 50-year-old Corey Competore, the Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Department. The FBI is still looking into Crooks' motivation.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shweta Kukreti
Shweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read More

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