In a shocking incident that unfolded in Butler, Pennsylvania, a man identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, is alleged to have attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump.
The incident occurred at a rally ahead of the Republican National Convention, which is set to commence in Milwaukee on Monday. Crooks reportedly fired at Trump from a rooftop approximately 130 yards away, hitting the upper part of Trump's right ear as he addressed the crowd.
According to Fox News, law enforcement authorities discovered explosives in Crooks' car, which was parked near the rally venue. The vehicle was found following multiple reports of suspicious packages in the vicinity of the shooter's location. Bomb technicians were swiftly dispatched to the scene, which was meticulously combed through late into the night to ensure safety. In addition to the car, a search was also conducted at Crooks' residence, where more bomb-making materials were discovered.
The FBI has identified Crooks, a resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the primary suspect in the assassination attempt on Trump that took place on July 13. The bureau has urged the public to submit any relevant information, photos, or videos online at fbi.gov/butler or via a dedicated hotline, 1-800-CALL-FBI. The investigation is still active and ongoing, with a motive yet to be determined.
In the ensuing chaos, Secret Service agents fatally shot Crooks, who had positioned himself on an elevated spot outside the rally venue at a farm show in Butler. The incident resulted in one attendee's death and left two spectators critically injured. The victims, all men, have not been identified yet.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, law enforcement officials revealed to the Associated Press that bomb-making materials were found both in Crooks' vehicle and his home. The firearm used in the attack is believed to have been purchased by Crooks' father at least six months prior to the incident. Federal agents are currently working to understand how Crooks obtained the gun and to gather more information about him.
This shocking incident underscores the need for heightened security measures at public events, particularly those involving high-profile figures. It also raises questions about the ease with which potentially lethal weapons and materials can fall into the wrong hands, prompting a call for stricter regulations and enforcement.
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