TL/DR –
Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from suburban Pittsburgh, attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump by opening fire at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Prior to the attack, Crooks practiced at a shooting range, purchased a ladder and ammunition, and assembled an improvised explosive device in his car. Although investigators have accessed Crooks’ phone and interviewed family and friends, they have not yet discovered any political or ideological motive for the attack.
Thomas Matthew Crooks’ Activities Prior to Attack on Trump
Twenty-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks pursued a series of activities around Pittsburgh before he attempted to assassinate the former President Donald Trump. These activities included visits to a shooting range, a Home Depot store, and a gun store where he bought ammunition.
Details of the Attack
It’s reported that Crooks drove to Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, with an explosive device in his car. Investigators believe he used the ladder he purchased to climb a nearby building and then opened fire.
Investigation into Crooks’ Motive
As investigators search for a motive behind the attack, they are reviewing Crooks’ movements before the attack. Despite investigating his digital footprint and personal life, authorities have found no evidence suggesting a political or ideological motivation.
The Explosive Device
In addition to his gunfire, Crooks had a remote control detonator and his car trunk contained a wired box of explosives. This finding leads investigators to consider that he might have been planning to create a distraction during the shooting.
Weapons Used in the Attack
The firearm Crooks used was a legally purchased AR-style rifle owned by his father, Matthew Crooks. It’s one of over 20 firearms owned by the elder Crooks and kept at their home. The father and son were members of Clairton Sportsmen’s Club and frequently practiced shooting there.
Statements from Involved Parties
The Lawyer for Clairton Sportsmen’s Club and the owner of Allegheny Arms and Gun Works, where the ammunition was purchased, as well as a spokesperson for Home Depot, where the ladder was purchased have all made statements condemning the violence and expressing relief that the assassination was not successful.
Open Questions Over the Attack
It’s unclear whether the purchased ammunition or the ladder were used in the attack. Matthew Crooks has declined to comment on the incident.
The Investigation Continues
The FBI has managed to access Thomas Matthew Crooks’ cell phone, but investigators are still struggling to understand his motives for the attempted assassination. According to law enforcement sources, his parents have been cooperating with the investigation, stating that their son had no known friends or political affiliations.
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