Newly released bodycam footage captures the moment a police officer is hoisted up to the roof of a building, confronting a gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump. Thomas Crooks, the perpetrator, had a history of gun practice at a local club, raising questions about his preparation and motive.
In the aftermath of a thwarted assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, chilling bodycam footage has emerged, detailing the heroic actions of police officers who confronted the would-be assailant. The incident unfolded in Butler Township, Pennsylvania, where 20-year-old Thomas Crooks perched himself on the roof of the AGR building, aiming to kill Trump during a rally.
The newly released footage, obtained by Fox News Digital, depicts the tense moments as officers responded to the scene. One officer can be seen being hoisted up to the roof using a ladder, reaching the assailant's vantage point.
The Foiled Trump Assassination Attempt: Bodycam Footage Reveals Officer's Heroism
"We have a man on the roof with a gun," an officer can be heard shouting in the footage. "He's trying to shoot the president."
Crooks, who had been a member of a local gun club since August 2023, had visited the range numerous times before the assassination attempt. According to records from Senator Chuck Grassley's office, Crooks had practiced shooting on at least 43 occasions, often prioritizing rifle target practice.
The Foiled Trump Assassination Attempt: Bodycam Footage Reveals Officer's Heroism
On May 23, 2024, the same range was used by the Department of Homeland Security for "police training," raising concerns about the potential connection between Crooks' activities and the incident.
Crooks' last visit to the gun club occurred just one day prior to the assassination attempt, on July 12, 2024. This visit adds to the mystery surrounding his motive and the level of preparation he underwent.
As the officer ascended to the roof, Crooks appeared to be crawling and evading detection. The officer eventually confronted the assailant, who was then shot and killed. The footage does not show the moment of the shooting itself.
The aftermath of the incident has sparked an investigation into Crooks' background and his potential connections to extremist groups. Investigators are also reviewing the bodycam footage and other evidence to determine whether the assassination attempt was part of a broader conspiracy.
The release of the bodycam footage has provided a glimpse into the bravery and quick thinking of the police officers who prevented a potentially deadly attack on former President Trump. It has also raised questions about the assailant's motivations and the potential security vulnerabilities that may have been exploited.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to uncover the full extent of Crooks' activities and connections, and to determine whether any other individuals may have been involved in the plot to assassinate Donald Trump.
