Man shot at Trump rally releases first statement since assassination attempt

One of the two rallygoers that was shot at a rally for former President Donald Trump last week released his first statement from the hospital on Thursday, and confirmed that he has spoken with the former president.

Law enforcement officials identified 74-year-old James Copenhaver, and 57-year-old David Dutch as two of the three survivors of Saturday's attack, with Trump being the third. Trump was wounded in his right ear. The gunman and one other attendee were killed in the assassination attempt. 

Copenhaver and Dutch are still in the hospital, but Copenhaver is now in "serious" condition, instead of "critical," as of Wednesday. Dutch is in stable condition after suffering two gunshot wounds.

"We continue to offer our thoughts and prayers for the full and speedy recovery of Mr. David Dutch and for the full recovery of President Donald Trump," Copenhaver said in a statement obtained by Fox News. "I am thankful for all of my amazing caregivers who have done a wonderful job saving my life and helping me on my road to recovery.

"Recovery will be slow, but steady. I hope to get back onto my Harley Davidson someday and go for a ride with my best friend Randy, who attended the rally with me that day and was the first person to care for me after being shot," he said.

Copenhaver said he and his family are also praying for the family of 50-year-old Corey Comperatore, who was killed in the shooting while protecting his wife and daughters. A memorial service for Comperatore was held on Thursday.

"Jim would like to especially thank the first responders, medics, and hospital staff who have provided him with initial and continuing care," Copenhaver's family said. "Additionally, Jim would like to express his thoughts and prayers for the other victims, their families, and President Trump. He prays for a safe and speedy recovery for them all."

The family also said they spoke to Trump on Thursday, and that the former president called back after he missed James Copenhaver the first time, because he was still asleep. 

"They were shocked by just how humble he was," said Joseph Feldman, a spokesperson for the Copenhaver family.

No motive for the shooting has been revealed so far, but law enforcement officials have identified the suspected shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthews Crooks.

Misty Severi is an evening news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.