By Sarah Roebuck
FireRescue1
BUTTLER, Pa. — Scammers are exploiting the family of Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief who was killed in a shooting at a Trump rally in mid July.
Comperatore’s sister told KDKA-TV that they have never solicited donations and have no plans to do so. She expressed their distress over the situation.
A permanent tribute outside the Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Company honors Comperatore, who died protecting his wife and daughter from flying bullets at the rally. Comperatore, 50, was a former chief and a life member of the department.
Two weeks after the incident, a fraudulent Facebook post in his name started asking for donations.
“We still have debts from the funeral expenses. If anyone would be willing to donate to cover it up, please write to us here by clicking on the ‘send a message’ below,” the scam post said, according to KDKA.
Comperatore’s sister discredited the post and expressed disappointment that scammers are taking advantage of the situation.
“We do not wish for kind-hearted people to be taken advantage of. We never have asked for donations, nor will we. Ever. We know these awful people are out there. We just don’t want anyone to unknowingly give their hard-earned money to scammers. We feel terrible that this is happening to good people,” Comperatore’s sister told KDKA-TV.
Comperatore’s sister mentioned that those who wish to donate can do so by contributing to their local volunteer fire department or EMS service in Comperatore’s honor.