A local GOP volunteer who helped set up and attended former President Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania last weekend raised concerns about the venue’s security prior to the event. Zach Scherer, a volunteer firefighter, was present at the rally and expressed that safety concerns were brought up the night before the event during a walk-through with state GOP staff. Despite raising multiple issues regarding parking and security, no changes were made by the time the rally began.
Scherer, who has volunteered for numerous Trump rallies in the past, noted that security and logistics concerns were typically addressed promptly in previous events. However, he highlighted that the Butler rally seemed disorganized, with worries about the venue's size, multiple entry points, and open rooftops.
Comparing the 2020 rally held at the Butler airport, Scherer emphasized the heightened security measures at that venue, including fewer entry points and visible Secret Service presence. He expressed concerns about the lack of security leading up to the Farm Show grounds event, where the tragic shooting occurred.
Scherer also mourned the loss of Corey Comperatore, a fellow volunteer firefighter who tragically lost his life shielding his family during the attack. The community in Butler County has been deeply affected by the incident, with plans for a funeral procession to honor Comperatore.
During the rally, Scherer witnessed the moment when Trump was injured and described the chaos that ensued when gunfire erupted. He recounted pulling his father to safety and following the Secret Service's evacuation order amidst the panic of people trying to escape the danger.
