During a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, an alarming incident occurred when former President Donald Trump was injured in what authorities are labeling an assassination attempt. This dramatic event unfolded on Saturday evening, leading to a series of tragic outcomes.
According to reports from the Secret Service, the confrontation resulted in the deaths of the attacker and a bystander, while two other individuals sustained critical injuries. The FBI has identified the gunman as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.
In a statement to Fox News, the FBI confirmed Crooks’ identity and involvement in the attack. They emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and urged anyone with relevant information to share it through the FBI’s website or by calling their hotline. The FBI’s statement highlighted the critical role of public assistance in such high-profile cases.
The incident took a fatal turn when Secret Service snipers neutralized Crooks at the scene, where authorities later recovered an AR-style rifle. Crooks, a resident of Bethel Park, approximately 40 miles from Butler, remains a mysterious figure with unclear motives for targeting Trump. Surveillance footage showed Secret Service snipers vigilantly scanning the area moments before Crooks began shooting, promptly responding with return fire.
Former President Trump, in a post on Truth Social, recounted his narrow escape, revealing that a bullet grazed his ear. He described the chilling moment he realized he had been shot, expressing his gratitude to the Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift and decisive action.
Trump’s message on social media read, “I knew immediately that something was wrong when I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and felt the bullet ripping through my skin. I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania.” Despite the gravity of the situation, Trump was discharged from the hospital later that night, around 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
In the wake of the incident, President Joe Biden extended a personal call to former President Trump, expressing his concern and solidarity. A White House official confirmed this communication, adding that Biden also spoke with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Butler Mayor Bob Dandoy. The official noted that President Biden would receive an updated briefing from homeland security and law enforcement officials the following morning.
Ivanka Trump, former first daughter, also responded to the assassination attempt with a heartfelt message on social media platform X, expressing her love and support for her father.
This shocking event has not only intensified security measures around political figures but also sparked a renewed conversation about the safety of public officials during campaign events. The FBI’s ongoing investigation aims to uncover more details about Crooks’ background and motivations, seeking to prevent future threats and ensure the safety of political figures and the public alike.