Law enforcement discovered an improvised explosive device and other bomb-making materials inside the white van driven by Thomas Matthew Crooks, who nearly assassinated former President Trump on July 13, 2024.
In the aftermath of the failed assassination attempt on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, law enforcement authorities have discovered an improvised explosive device (IED) and other bomb-making materials inside the white van driven by suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks.
Sources confirmed to Fox News that the van, which was parked near the rally site in Butler, Pennsylvania, contained multiple explosives. Although the exact number and type of explosives have not been disclosed, the authorities emphasized that more than one device was found.
Bomb-Making Materials Found in Van Used by Attempted Trump Assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks
In addition to the explosives in the van, law enforcement sources also revealed that bomb-making materials were found inside Crooks' house. This discovery suggests that Crooks may have been planning a more extensive attack or that he was preparing other explosives for use in future incidents.
A video circulating on social media shows law enforcement officers meticulously searching through the white van for over four minutes. The video, which was reportedly taken after Crooks' attempt to assassinate Trump, provides a glimpse into the investigation and the seriousness of the threat posed by the suspect.
Bomb-Making Materials Found in Van Used by Attempted Trump Assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks
Despite the discoveries, many questions remain unanswered about the failed assassination attempt. Law enforcement and intelligence agencies are actively investigating the motive behind Crooks' attack and any potential connections to other individuals or groups.
The Secret Service and local police have been embroiled in a war of words following the incident, with both sides blaming the other for security lapses. This conflict has raised concerns about the effectiveness of security protocols at political rallies and the coordination between federal and local law enforcement agencies.
Bomb-Making Materials Found in Van Used by Attempted Trump Assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks
The House Oversight Committee has subpoenaed Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to testify before Congress on July 22nd. The committee is demanding answers about the Secret Service's response to the assassination attempt and any failures that may have contributed to the incident.
Trump suffered a graze wound to his ear during the shooting, but he was quickly rushed off the stage by security personnel. Former fire chief Corey Comperatore, who shielded his family from the hail of bullets, tragically lost his life in the incident.
Bomb-Making Materials Found in Van Used by Attempted Trump Assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks
Crooks, who would have turned 21 in September, had no prior criminal record or traffic citations. He was a registered Republican, but he had only participated in one election.
Law enforcement authorities are continuing their investigation into the attempted assassination attempt, including examining Crooks' social media activity, financial records, and any potential accomplices. The findings of the investigation are expected to shed more light on the motive and planning behind the attack.
Bomb-Making Materials Found in Van Used by Attempted Trump Assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks
