One year after surviving an assassination attempt, U.S. President Donald Trump reflected on the harrowing moment during a public statement on Monday, saying he firmly believes God spared his life “for a righteous purpose.”
The attempt took place on July 13, 2024, during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire, injuring Trump in his right ear. The shooter was fatally shot by Secret Service snipers moments later.
“It remains my firm conviction that God alone saved me that day for a righteous purpose: to restore our beloved Republic to greatness and to rescue our Nation from those who seek its ruin,” Trump said in a statement.
Trump was seen bleeding from the ear as Secret Service agents rushed him off stage—a moment that quickly became a symbol of resilience for his supporters. The rally attack was the first of two known assassination attempts on Trump that year. A second incident occurred on September 15, when a suspect was apprehended at Trump’s Florida golf course before he could act.
Trump Honors Fallen Firefighter, Praises First Responders
In his Monday remarks, Trump paid tribute to Corey Comperatore, a firefighter and father who was killed during the July 13 shooting.
“The world will never forget the tragic loss of Corey Comperatore—a firefighter, veteran, and devoted husband and father,” Trump said.
He also expressed gratitude to doctors, first responders, and rally attendees who helped ensure the safety of others in the crowd.
“These men and women arrived at the rally grounds as ordinary Americans, but left as heroes,” he said.
A Day of Reflection and Football
Trump marked the anniversary while attending the FIFA Club World Cup final, where Chelsea defeated Paris Saint-Germain in an upset victory.
“It was an upset today I guess… But it was a great match,” Trump commented before returning to Washington.
What Happened on July 13, 2024?
Trump was just minutes into his speech when Crooks fired from a rooftop, prompting panic and chaos. A single round struck Trump’s ear. He later said he “felt the bullet rip through the skin.” The shooter was killed on-site, but not before Comperatore lost his life shielding his family.
The dramatic footage of Trump bleeding but raising a fist in defiance quickly went viral, solidifying his image among supporters as a symbol of survival and strength.
Now, a year later, Trump continues to frame the attack as divine intervention—a moment that, in his view, only strengthened his mission as leader of the United States.
