In the latest update regarding the assassination attempt of former US President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally, the attacker was detected by police prior to firing shots, stated a report by the Associated Press. A police officer climbed to the rooftop where the attacker, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was positioned but retreated when Crooks aimed his rifle at him.
Crooks had stationed himself on a rooftop near the rally. Alerted by rally attendees, police initiated a frantic search. A local officer discovered Crooks but had to retreat down the ladder when Crooks pointed his weapon at him, allowing Crooks to fire toward Trump.
The gunman was subsequently shot by US Secret Service agents at the event.
Questions have been raised regarding how Crooks managed to get so close to the former President. Kevin Rojek, the FBI agent in charge of the Pittsburgh field office, expressed surprise at the gunman’s proximity and ability to fire before being neutralised by the Secret Service.
The incident, which occurred at Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, is being investigated as an attempted assassination of the former President and presumptive Republican nominee, as stated by law enforcement officials.
Dramatic video footage emerged, showing the quick response of Secret Service snipers who shot the gunman. The footage captured the moment when two snipers, positioned on a nearby roof, took aim and fired at Crooks.
In the aftermath of the attack, nine shots were fired, causing Trump to duck for cover before being surrounded by Secret Service agents, as shown in event videos. The shooting resulted in one spectator’s death, and investigators are now searching for clues to understand Crooks’ motives.
The FBI is investigating the incident as a potential act of domestic terrorism, though no clear ideological motive has been identified. This absence of motive has led to the proliferation of conspiracy theories.
The FBI believes Crooks, who had bomb-making materials in his car, acted alone. Investigators have not found any threatening social media posts or ideological stances that might explain why he targeted Trump.
