The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Crooks was fatally shot by a Secret Service sniper during the incident, which resulted in the death of one audience member and critical injuries to two others.
Corey Comperatore, a Pennsylvania firefighter attending the rally, tragically lost his life in the shooting. As of Sunday night, the two injured victims remain in critical condition at Allegheny General Hospital.
Background of Thomas Matthew Crooks
Crooks, a recent graduate from the Community College of Allegheny County with a degree in engineering science, was scheduled to begin studies at Robert Morris University in the fall. He had previously attended Bethel Park High School, where he graduated in 2022. Former classmates described him as a quiet individual who was not involved in school sports but was known for his academic achievements and friendly demeanor among teachers.
Mark Sigafoos, a classmate of Crooks, mentioned that while there were no apparent signs of aggression from Crooks during his time in school, he was seen as a reserved student who kept to himself. Another classmate, Jason Koehler, recalled Crooks as a loner who faced bullying for his appearance and preferences in attire.
In addition to his studies, Crooks worked as a dietary aide at the Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. He also held a membership at a local gun club, the Clairton Sportsmen’s Club, for over a year.
Investigation and Motive
Federal authorities are actively investigating the motive behind Crooks’ actions. As of Monday, there is no conclusive evidence pointing to a specific motive, and investigators are exploring whether Crooks had any affiliations or ideological motivations for the attack. President Biden addressed the nation, condemning the violence and urging a reduction in political tensions.
Law enforcement officials have secured Crooks’ residence and are analyzing his electronic devices and social media activity. Despite finding a suspicious device in his possession, there is no current evidence linking him to foreign terrorism or confirming any mental health issues.
Weapon Used and Security Measures
During the rally, Crooks wielded a semiautomatic AR-style rifle and had purchased ammunition earlier that day. Authorities discovered additional suspicious devices in his vehicle and at his residence, prompting an extensive investigation into potential additional threats.
Following the incident, additional security measures were implemented for former President Trump’s protection, including enhanced personnel and technological surveillance tools.
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Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses reported seeing Crooks behaving suspiciously before the shooting, with some attempting to alert law enforcement to his presence. Security personnel responded swiftly, but Crooks managed to fire several rounds toward the rally attendees before being neutralized.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather information and analyze Crooks’ background and actions leading up to the incident.
