The Secret Service director, Kimberly Cheatle, faced scrutiny from senators over the agency's handling of security at a recent Republican National Convention rally where an armed individual opened fire.
Amidst heightened concerns about security lapses during political events, Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle has come under the scrutiny of lawmakers following an incident at a Republican National Convention rally. The agency's handling of the situation, which saw an armed individual open fire on attendees, has raised questions about the adequacy of its protective measures.
Senators have expressed frustration over the perceived lack of accountability within the Secret Service and have called for Cheatle's resignation. Cheatle is expected to appear before the House Oversight Committee on Monday to provide further clarification on the incident.
Secret Service Chief Grilled by Senators Over RNC Security Lapse
According to a Secret Service source, the would-be assassin, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, had concealed the weapon he used in the attack in advance. It remains unclear where he hid the gun, but it was not until he was spotted on the roof of the AGR International Inc. building, adjacent to the rally grounds, that agents noticed him in possession of the firearm.
Prior to the incident, Crooks was considered a "person of interest" but not a "threat" after being observed carrying a golf range finder. Range finders were not prohibited at rally events at the time, but authorities are reviewing the list of banned items.
Secret Service Chief Grilled by Senators Over RNC Security Lapse
The Secret Service had deployed four counter-sniper teams around the rally, two from the agency and two from local law enforcement. Two of the teams, one local and one from the Service, opened fire when Crooks began shooting. A federal sharpshooter successfully neutralized the gunman seconds later.
Crooks managed to inflict gunshot wounds on at least four individuals using an AR-15 rifle from his rooftop vantage point. Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old father of two, was fatally struck, while David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74, sustained serious injuries.
Secret Service Chief Grilled by Senators Over RNC Security Lapse
Former President Trump, who was the target of the attack, sustained a gunshot wound to the right ear and was seen ducking for cover with blood on his head. He later appeared at the convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with a bandage on his ear.
Wake services for Comperatore are scheduled for Thursday, with a private burial ceremony planned for Friday. The other victims remain hospitalized in stable but serious condition.
Secret Service Chief Grilled by Senators Over RNC Security Lapse
The incident has sparked a debate about security measures at political events and has reignited concerns about the Secret Service's ability to effectively protect public figures and attendees. Lawmakers are demanding answers and holding the agency accountable for any missteps that may have contributed to the security breach.
