In the wake of his failed attempt to assassinate former President Trump, a complex picture emerges of Thomas Crooks, a young man described as a quiet loner and an outcast. Former classmates share their impressions, revealing a life marked by isolation, bullying, and political polarization.
Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old Bethel Park, Pennsylvania resident, attempted to assassinate former President Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024. The failed assassination attempt has sent shockwaves through the community and beyond, prompting investigations into his motivations and the events leading up to the attack.
Former classmates have come forward to describe Crooks as a quiet, solitary figure who often faced social isolation and bullying. Jason Kohler, a Bethel Park High School alum, recalled Crooks as an outcast who was teased for his unconventional clothing choices and awkward demeanor.
The Unraveling of a Silent Assassin: Thomas Crooks and the Failed Trump Assassination
Despite his social challenges, Crooks was known for his academic achievements. He received a National Math & Science Initiative Star Award in 2022 and was remembered by classmates as a helpful and kind student.
While Crooks' classmates generally recall him as apolitical, some have described him as conservative, making his attempt to assassinate the Republican presidential candidate appear paradoxical. One former classmate, Max R. Smith, said Crooks often expressed support for conservative views in class discussions.
The Unraveling of a Silent Assassin: Thomas Crooks and the Failed Trump Assassination
ABC News reported that Crooks attempted to join his school's rifle club but was rejected due to his demeanor and appearance. This rejection may have contributed to his sense of isolation and alienation.
Despite his difficulties at school, Crooks found solace in the Clairton Sportsmen's Club, where he was a member. The FBI has visited the club as part of its investigation into Crooks' motive and connections.
The Unraveling of a Silent Assassin: Thomas Crooks and the Failed Trump Assassination
Prior to the shooting, Crooks was employed as a dietary aide at Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. His background check was clean, and the center's administrator described his job performance as satisfactory.
The Bethel Park School District confirmed that Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022. The FBI has gained access to his phone as part of its investigation, hoping to uncover any potential communications or messages that may shed light on his motive.
The Unraveling of a Silent Assassin: Thomas Crooks and the Failed Trump Assassination
The messaging platform Discord has revealed details about Crooks' account, including his interactions with other users and the content he consumed. This information may provide insights into his political views and potential connections with extremist groups.
The shooting attempt has left Crooks' former classmates and community members in shock. Many expressed disbelief that the quiet and reserved young man they knew could be capable of such a violent act. The investigation into the shooting continues, aiming to uncover the factors and influences that led to Crooks' actions.
The Unraveling of a Silent Assassin: Thomas Crooks and the Failed Trump Assassination
