Thousands were on-hand at Saturday’s rally, including many local politicians.
Our newsroom spoke with Representative Mike Kelly not long after the shooting happened.
“It was a peaceful gathering. A lot of supporters of Trump were here to see the 45th President of the United States. And for whatever somebody thinks they have to destroy the whole gathering,” Kelly said. “We may not all believe the same way or vote the same way. This is not what you do. This is absolutely horrible.”
Butler City Mayor Bob Dandoy says he received a call from President Joe Biden following yesterday’s shooting.
“The President extended his sympathy to the community and offered any federal assistance that might be necessary,” Dandoy said.
Butler County Commissioners Leslie Osche and Kim Geyer praised local emergency responders for their efforts throughout the event Saturday.
“The event that unfolded yesterday was devastating for everyone and our focus right now is on supporting our emergency management in its efforts to provide needed resources to those impacted and to the ongoing investigation. Above all, we are praying for and offering our support to the family who lost a loved one and those who were injured,” the statement read.
“All day long, we witnessed the tireless efforts of our emergency responders treating all those who were affected by the heat along with those who sprung into action to protect attendees when the shots were fired. To those who were there with us, we extend our thanks for the manner in which they calmly and peacefully exited the area. We are also grateful to Independence Health System for their assistance throughout the entire day to care for the residents and visitors to our County, for caring for former President Trump, and especially for the other victims of this tragedy. We are reminded that we cannot allow the actions of one man who was not a Butler County resident to overcome the heroic efforts of those who serve our county and our country.”
Slippery Rock Mayor Jondavid Longo led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance as the event began. He said in a social media post “We were seated just feet away from President Trump while the rounds were fired from behind us and flying overhead as we were in the direct line of fire…I’m home now. I’m alright. My family is safe. But an innocent man lost his life today because he came to hear words of inspiration from President Trump.”
