Corey Comperatore: 'Hero' firefighter died shielding wife and daughter from gunshots during Trump assassination attempt

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BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA: In a tragic turn of events, Corey Comperatore, a beloved former firefighter and devoted father of two, lost his life while shielding his family during the attempted assassination of Donald Trump at the Butler, Pennsylvania rally on Saturday, July 13.

The 50-year-old Sarver, Pennsylvania resident, remembered as a "girl dad" and a pillar of his community, was hailed as a "hero" by officials and loved ones. 

Thomas Matthew Crooks identified as gunman who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump

Donald Trump's campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania turned chaotic after a gunman fired multiple shots at the former president. The Secret Service agents immediately surrounded Trump, who crouched to the ground after covering his ears as the shots rang out.

The shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was promptly taken down by the Secret Service sniper. The FBI is currently investigating the horrific incident.

Trump, who sustained an injury to his right ear, is reportedly "fine" and plans to attend the Republican National Convention.

As per reports, Comperatore, a staunch Trump supporter, used his body as a shield to protect his wife and one of his daughters as the bullets rang out, sacrificing his life to save theirs.

His daughter, Allyson, took to Facebook to pay tribute, writing, "He truly loved us enough to take a real bullet for us. I want nothing more than to cry on him and tell him thank you." 

His wife, Helen, called him a "real-life superhero," adding, "Yesterday, what [was meant to] be such an exciting day for my husband, especially, turned into a nightmare for our family," as per the New York Post.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro pays tribute to Corey Comperatore

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Corey Comperatore.

"Corey was a girl dad, Corey was a firefighter, Corey went to church every Sunday, Corey loved his community, and most especially, Corey loved his family," said the governer in a press briefing on Sunday.

He added, "He was an avid supporter of the former president and was so excited to be there last night with him and the community." 

Corey Comperatore hailed for his work as a fire chief 

Corey Comperatore’s dedication to his family and community was well-known. He served as volunteer fire chief for Buffalo Township before stepping down in the early 2000s to spend more time with his children.

"His two girls and his wife were everything," said Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Co-Chief Kip Johnston, adding, "Great leader, great family man, good friend. Couldn’t ask for a better [firefighter]." 

Randy Reamer, president of the fire company, described Comperatore as an exemplary firefighter who served for over 20 years.

"He was one of those guys you wanted to go into a fire with because you knew you were coming back out. He definitely stood up for what he believed in, never backed down to anyone … He was a really good guy," expressed Reamer. 

Assistant Chief Ricky Heasley, who knew Comperatore for over a decade, recalled him as full of life and always ready to help others, adding, "He never had a bad word."

The fire company plans to install a memorial drapery to honor their fallen hero. 

Internet mourns the loss of Corey Comperatore who was killed at Butler rally

In the wake of Corey Comperatore's tragic death, netizens gathered together to pay condolences to the former firefighter, hailing him as a "hero" for sacrificing his life for his family. 

One wrote, "Love to the family of Corey Comperatore who was killed at the rally while protecting his family," and another said, "God rest his soul he died a hero."

"What a tragedy!!! Is it too soon to talk about guns??" remarked a person, while someone else added, "That poor family. Such a senseless loss." 

"Rest in peace. God Bless Mr. Corey Comperatore, and his family-A great loss for our country," stated an individual. 

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.