In a significant update on the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, the FBI released new photos and detailed findings regarding the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, and his preparations leading up to the July 13 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The release includes images of the firearm used in the attack, as well as the backpack and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found in Crooks' vehicle. This latest disclosure aims to clarify the shooter's actions and refute ongoing conspiracy theories.
On Wednesday, FBI Special Agent Kevin Rojek from the Pittsburgh Field Office provided a comprehensive overview of Crooks' activities before the attack. Rojek described how Crooks had meticulously planned the assault, conducting over 60 searches related to both Trump and President Joe Biden in the months leading up to the rally. Despite this detailed planning, Rojek emphasized that Crooks' exact motive remains unclear and that investigators have not identified any co-conspirators.
According to Rojek, Crooks became increasingly focused on the Butler rally after it was announced in early July. "We saw through our analysis of all his-particularly his online searches-a sustained, detailed effort to plan an attack on some events," Rojek explained. He noted that Crooks' interest intensified once he identified the Trump rally as a "target of opportunity."
The FBI's release included new photographs showing the firearm used by Crooks, which featured a collapsible stock. This design, investigators believe, may have been intended to help conceal the rifle at the event. Additionally, the photos depicted a backpack containing IEDs, which were discovered in Crooks' car. These revelations provide crucial insights into the preparedness of the shooter and the potential threat he posed.
Thomas Crooks’ rifle as recovered at shooting site.
Thomas Crooks’ rifle broken down as was likely done for transport and the backpack recovered onsite.
On the day of the rally, Crooks was seen engaging in several preparatory activities. Surveillance footage showed him climbing the American Glass Research (AGR) building and traversing rooftops between 6:05 and 6:08 p.m., shortly before the shooting. The FBI also confirmed that Crooks operated a drone for 11 minutes earlier in the day, which may have been used to assess the security arrangements at the rally, although the precise reason for the drone's use remains undetermined.
Two improvised explosive devices as initially discovered in Thomas Crooks’ car trunk.
Rojek refuted persistent rumors and conspiracy theories about the attack, specifically addressing claims of a second shooter. "I can confirm that there was no second shooter," Rojek stated firmly. He also responded to suggestions that Crooks might have been motivated by foreign influence, asserting, "We have not seen any indication that Crooks was directed by a foreign entity."
The detailed analysis of Crooks' online activity revealed that his search history was extensive and methodical. On July 4, 2024, he specifically looked up information about Trump's campaign event in Butler, including searches for "Will Trump speak from at Butler Farm Show" and "Butler Farm Show podium." These searches were followed by inquiries into the venue and event details in the days leading up to the attack.
The air conditioning unit Thomas Crooks’ used to access the roof of the AGR building. The subject accessed the roof by climbing on the tan machine on the far right side of the photo. Note: This photo taken by FBI Pittsburgh is not an evidence photo. It was taken during a tour of the site in the days following the shooting.
Despite the thorough investigation, the FBI has yet to establish a clear motive for Crooks' actions. Bobby Wells, executive assistant director of the FBI's National Security Branch, acknowledged that while investigators have a better understanding of Crooks' mindset, "we have not identified a motive, nor any co-conspirators or associates of Crooks with advanced knowledge of the attack."
The release of this information is intended to address public speculation and provide clarity on the events surrounding the assassination attempt. As the investigation continues, the FBI remains committed to uncovering any additional details that could explain Crooks' motivations and actions.
