FBI Unveils New Details in Trump Assassination Attempt Investigation

The FBI has released fresh information regarding its inquiry into the July 13 assassination attempt against former President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, revealing the suspect's intricate planning and evasion of security measures.

The FBI has disclosed new details from their investigation into the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13. The apprehended suspect, 20-year-old Thomas Crooks, gained access to the roof of a building adjacent to Trump's rally by scaling HVAC equipment and pipes. He traversed rooftops to reach a vantage point atop the American Glass Research building, located approximately 150 yards from the former president's speaking location.

Prior to the incident, Crooks had conducted internet searches on current and former presidents. He signed up for the event three days after the rally announcement and researched the distance between Lee Henry Oswald and John F. Kennedy during the 1963 assassination. He also visited the rally site a week before the event.

FBI Unveils New Details in Trump Assassination Attempt Investigation

Crooks' interest in firearms began in 2023 with shooting lessons. He made 25 online firearm purchases using an alias. Additionally, he acquired chemical precursors used in explosives through online purchases.

Crooks' father legally purchased the AR-15-style rifle used in the rally and legally transferred it to his son. He also obtained ammunition from a local gun store on the morning of the event.

FBI Unveils New Details in Trump Assassination Attempt Investigation

On the day of the rally, Crooks parked his vehicle and flew a drone near the rally site around 3:50 p.m. and 4 p.m. He remained at the site for about 70 minutes before the assassination attempt, according to FBI Director Christopher Wray.

Despite being observed by law enforcement an hour before the shooting, Crooks' evasion of security remains unclear. Over 300 FBI agents are working tirelessly to establish a comprehensive timeline of Crooks' actions.

FBI Unveils New Details in Trump Assassination Attempt Investigation

Eight rounds were discovered on the roof where Crooks fired, as per the FBI. Law enforcement noticed a suspicious person near the rally site around 5:10 p.m. The Secret Service was notified of his presence. Within an hour, law enforcement snipers took photos of Crooks and his bicycle.

Trump took the stage around 6 p.m., an hour after his scheduled appearance. Crooks fired multiple rounds, killing 50-year-old Corey Comperatore and wounding three others. David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74, are still recovering.

FBI Unveils New Details in Trump Assassination Attempt Investigation

The FBI continues to investigate Crooks' motive and any possible co-conspirators. The Behavioral Analysis Unit is building a profile of the suspect, described as a "loner" with limited social connections. Trump plans to return to Butler for a future rally, details of which have not been disclosed.