Former President Trump's would-be assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks, exhibited unusual behavior leading up to the shooting, including claiming he had "something to do" on his scheduled workday. New findings reveal a clearer timeline of events and possible clues to his motive.
In a chilling turn of events, Former President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The would-be assassin, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired five rounds, grazing Trump's ear and tragically killing firefighter Corey Comperatore.
New details have emerged, painting a clearer picture of the events leading up to the shooting. According to reports, Crooks had informed his boss that he would not be at work on Saturday, claiming he had "something to do." This perplexing statement raised suspicions and prompted investigators to delve deeper into his activities.
Unraveling the Timeline of the Trump Assassination Attempt: Exclusive Details Emerge
Law enforcement sources revealed that Crooks had been employed as a dietary aide at Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. However, his employment status had been listed as unemployed in 2020. The center's administrator, Marcie Grimm, stated that Crooks' job performance was satisfactory, and his background check had not raised any concerns.
After the shooting, investigators recovered several items from Crooks' body, including a "newer model" phone and a gray 12-button remote transmitter. Experts believe the transmitter may have been linked to an explosive device found in Crooks' car, suggesting a potential plan for a diversionary tactic.
Unraveling the Timeline of the Trump Assassination Attempt: Exclusive Details Emerge
Roughly three hours before the assassination attempt, Crooks passed through security screening at the rally venue carrying a range-finder, a device typically used for measuring distances in target shooting and hunting. This suspicious sighting was reported to state police, sparking discussions about whether Crooks intended to use binoculars or something more sinister.
Investigators have also examined Crooks' phone and laptop but have not yet determined a clear motive for his actions. However, they have established a detailed sequence of events leading up to the shooting.
Unraveling the Timeline of the Trump Assassination Attempt: Exclusive Details Emerge
Crooks apparently gained access to the building's roof by climbing on top of an air conditioning unit. Minutes later, he opened fire on the crowd, targeting Trump. Secret Service agents quickly intervened, firing multiple shots and killing Crooks.
The investigation into the Trump assassination attempt is ongoing. Law enforcement officials continue to gather evidence and piece together the circumstances surrounding Crooks' motive and plans.
Unraveling the Timeline of the Trump Assassination Attempt: Exclusive Details Emerge
The incident has raised concerns about the adequacy of security measures at political rallies and has sparked debates about gun control and mental health screening. As the investigation unfolds, more light may be shed on the events that led to this chilling attempt on the life of a former president.
