The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the individual responsible for the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally on July 13. The incident occurred in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Trump was addressing his supporters.
According to an FBI statement, Crooks was shot and killed by a Secret Service sniper on the scene. The motive behind the attack remains unknown, as stated by Kevin Rojek, the FBI Pittsburgh special agent in charge. Authorities had to rely on DNA analysis to confirm Crooks' identity, as he was not carrying any identification at the time.
During the rally, a bullet struck the upper part of Trump's right ear. He was quickly escorted off the stage and taken to a local medical center for treatment before returning home to New Jersey. In a post on his Truth Social network, Trump described hearing a whizzing sound and feeling the bullet pierce his skin, resulting in significant bleeding.
Blood was visible on Trump's ear and face as security officers swiftly moved him to safety. The Secret Service confirmed that one bystander was killed, and two others were critically injured in the shooting. The FBI continues to investigate the incident and has urged anyone with relevant information to come forward.
