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On a seemingly ordinary day at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, an unprecedented event unfolded, shaking the nation. A 20-year-old man named Thomas Matthew Crooks attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump. Crooks accessed the rooftop near the rally by climbing over an air conditioning unit adjacent to the building, gaining a direct line of sight to fire several rounds at Trump. He was killed at the scene by Secret Service agents.
The Investigation
The FBI is treating the incident as a potential domestic terrorism case. Law enforcement sources revealed that Crooks purchased a 5-foot ladder before the shooting, though it was not used in the incident. As the investigation progresses, authorities are scrutinizing how Crooks managed to ascend to the roof undetected and execute his plan. His motives remain unclear, though his phone, found with a detonator, has provided leads. Investigators also discovered explosives in his car, suggesting a broader plan.
Family Background
Crooks’ father, Matthew Crooks, was profiled by the Trump campaign in 2016 as a pro-gun voter. Identified as a strong Republican and likely a gun owner, he was targeted for pro-gun messaging. Both of Crooks’ parents ranked highly on pro-gun metrics, indicating a strong likelihood of hunting for sport and shopping at hunting retailers. The AR-style rifle used in the attack was legally owned by Matthew Crooks.
The Aftermath
The shooting resulted in the injury of Trump and the death of one rally attendee. Trump, who sustained an injury to his right ear, has since used the incident to bolster his campaign against President Joe Biden. At the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Trump appeared with a prominent bandage, with speakers highlighting his narrow escape. President Biden has called for a reduction in political hostility in response to the incident.
Security Lapses
Questions are being raised about the security lapses that allowed Crooks to carry out his attack. Local police were reportedly inside the building from which Crooks fired but did not conclusively confront him. The US Secret Service, responsible for the inner perimeter, sought local police assistance for the outer perimeter. However, local police were not stationed in the building, leading to confusion and criticism over the security arrangements.
As the investigation continues, the FBI and other law enforcement agencies are piecing together the events and motives behind this shocking incident. The assassination attempt on former President Trump highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring security in a highly charged political environment.
Resources
ABC News: FBI examines Trump assassination attempt suspect’s phone, transmitter found on him
Forbes: Father Of Suspected Trump Gunman Was Profiled As Pro-Gun Voter By Trump Campaign: What We Know About Thomas Matthew Crooks
The Guardian: Cellphone and detonator found on rooftop near suspected Trump shooter