Security was on high alert Friday as hundreds gathered in rural Pennsylvania for the funeral of Corey Comperatore – the hero who lost his life at President Donald Trump’s rally last weekend.
Comperatore, the former Buffalo Township fire chief, was shot dead during the failed assassination attempt against Trump in Butler, PA, last Saturday.
The local hero died while shielding his family from the gunman’s bullets, saving his wife and daughter from harm in the process.
Witnesses revealed that Comperatore’s last words were “Get down,” as he sought to protect his family.
The 50-year-old patriot lost his life when he was struck by a bullet meant for Trump.
On Friday, hundreds of people lined the streets to honor Comperatore while waving American flags.
His daughter called her dad a “true hero,” a sentiment that has been widely echoed.
The massive crowds showed up to pay their respects and give him a lionheart’s farewell.
A procession of law enforcement at virtually every level, from local police to federal agents, firefighters from all over the area, EMS, and military personnel drove through the streets of rural Pennsylvania.
Residents waved flags to pay their respects.
Many of the wellwishers were clearly emotional as they wiped away tears.
There was a strong security presence for the private ceremony.
Comperatore leaves behind his wife, Helen, and two daughters.
Authorities conducting surveillance could be seen on nearby roofs with binoculars.
A small group of reporters was also set up nearby.
Trump narrowly avoided death during the assassination attempt.
When gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire, he managed to shoot Trump in the ear.
Trump’s coincidental head movement at the moment Crooks pulled the trigger likely saved his save.
David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74, were seriously wounded and are now recovering in a hospital.
Crooks had set up on a roof overlooking the rally about 150 yards from where Trump was speaking.
He was ultimately fatally shot to end the hail of gunfire.
