The investigation into the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump has uncovered significant details about the suspect, Thomas Matthew Crooks. Sources familiar with the investigation revealed that Crooks searched his phone for dates of Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, and the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The FBI confirmed these findings, highlighting the broader security concerns surrounding high-profile political events.
Law enforcement officials briefed lawmakers on Wednesday, disclosing that U.S. Secret Service snipers first spotted Crooks on a rooftop 20 minutes before he opened fire. The suspect, a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania, was seen at 5:52 p.m. ET, and shots were fired at 6:12 p.m. ET. This timeline has brought scrutiny upon the Secret Service's response, with the agency's director, Kimberly Cheatle, subpoenaed to testify before Congress. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson stated that Cheatle "welcomes the opportunity to testify."
The FBI and Secret Service briefed lawmakers that Crooks was identified as a person of interest a full 62 minutes before the shooting. The detailed timeline presented included key moments leading up to the incident:
- 5:10 p.m.: Crooks identified as a person of interest
- 5:30 p.m.: Crooks spotted with a rangefinder
- 5:52 p.m.: Crooks seen on the roof by Secret Service
- 6:02 p.m.: Trump takes the stage
- 6:12 p.m.: Crooks fires first shots
From the first shot to Crooks being neutralized took just 26 seconds. Eleven seconds after the first shot, Secret Service counter-snipers acquired their target, and 15 seconds later, Crooks was shot dead. Investigators have yet to determine Crooks' motive, as his phone search history did not reveal any political views, and there is no evidence suggesting he had co-conspirators.
Before the rally, Crooks purchased an ammunition box and visited the rally site twice, including on the day of the shooting. Law enforcement sources also noted that Crooks had no significant political affiliations and was described as a loner without friends, though he had been bullied in the past.
In an exclusive interview with ABC News, Cheatle confirmed that local police were present inside the building where Crooks positioned himself to fire at Trump. Cheatle also acknowledged that local authorities were responsible for securing the building.
Investigators discovered a remote transmitter in Crooks' pocket, which may have been intended to set off two suspicious devices found in his car and home. These devices were constructed using ammunition containers and various components, though their functionality and purpose are still being determined.
The incident at the rally resulted in the death of firefighter Corey Comperatore, who was fatally shot while shielding his family. Trump and two others sustained injuries. New bystander video obtained by Pittsburgh's ABC affiliate WTAE showed Crooks pacing near the magnetometers where rallygoers were being scanned for weapons before the shooting.
Law enforcement sources reported that Crooks' presence near the metal detectors raised suspicion, and an officer attempted to approach him. Crooks backed away and blended into the crowd before making his way to the American Glass Research building, where he took his position.
Butler County Sheriff Michael T. Slupe told ABC News that a Butler Township police officer briefly confronted Crooks on the roof but retreated when Crooks pointed his weapon at him. Shots rang out moments later, leading to the swift response from Secret Service snipers.
The ongoing investigation has conducted over 200 interviews and continues to search for any additional information that might shed light on Crooks' motives. As the FBI and Secret Service work to piece together the events leading up to the shooting, they aim to ensure that security measures are strengthened for future political events.
