It was an ordinary political rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, until that fateful day of July 13. Former President Donald Trump, now a Republican presidential candidate, was the center of attention, addressing a massive crowd when chaos erupted. The sound of a gunshot followed by pandemonium signaled a severe threat. Trump had been shot—or at least, grazed by something—cutting his speech short. Little did anyone know, this event would plunge America into a whirlwind of questions and emotions.
The scene was immediately flooded with Secret Service agents who sprang into action, shielding Trump and ushering him offstage. The crowd was in disarray. Everyone wanted answers, but the only certainty was the pandemonium. One spectator tragically lost their life, and two others were injured. Speculation ran rampant: Was it a bullet or shrapnel that had grazed Trump’s ear?
Enter Thomas Matthew Crooks, the shooter. Described by those who knew him—or thought they did—as a loner, Crooks meticulously executed his attack.
He accessed the roof of the AGR building using mechanical equipment on the ground and piping on the side. The FBI's investigation revealed that Crooks had visited a gun range just a day before the shooting, perhaps rehearsing his deadly intent. The same gun used was sold to Crooks by his own father in October 2023. It had a collapsible stock, making it easier for Crooks to smuggle the weapon into the venue undetected.
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