CNN Unveils Intense Video from Officer's Body Cam During Donald Trump Rally in Butler, Pennsylvania
Recently released body camera footage, obtained by CNN, captures the intense moment a Butler police officer spotted the gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump on July 13. The dramatic video shows the officer climbing to the roof of a building overlooking the rally, just seconds before the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire.
In the footage, the officer is seen being helped onto the roof by a colleague. Upon seeing Crooks, he quickly drops down and radios for assistance. Approximately 40 seconds later, Crooks fires eight shots at Trump, one of which strikes him in the ear. A Secret Service sniper neutralized Crooks shortly after.
Additional footage from the rally, obtained through a public records request, reveals that local officers had previously urged the Secret Service to position guards near the building from which Crooks eventually fired. Despite these warnings, security measures were insufficient, leading to the near-tragic event.
The body camera video also shows the officer scrambling to retrieve a rifle from his police car after the encounter. In a heated exchange captured on camera, he tells another officer, “F**king this close bro,” and describes how Crooks turned on him moments before the shots were fired.
Subsequent video shows officers attempting to reach the roof, where they find Crooks’ lifeless body, his rifle, and a trail of blood.
Earlier Warnings and Secret Service Oversight
In another video released by Butler police, officers are heard expressing frustration over the lack of Secret Service presence at the critical location. One officer recounts telling the Secret Service days earlier to station officers near the building. Despite assurances from the Secret Service, the area was not adequately secured.
Documents recently released by Senator Chuck Grassley provide further insight into Crooks' preparation for the attack. Records from Clairton Sportsmen’s Club reveal that Crooks had visited the gun range 43 times in the months leading up to the assassination attempt, focusing primarily on rifle practice. His final visit occurred just one day before the rally.
The Secret Service has declined to comment on the matter, raising further questions about the security lapses that allowed this near-tragedy to unfold.
