Trump Assassination Attempt: Timeline and Security Failures Revealed

Former President Donald Trump came under fire at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, resulting in one fatality and three injuries. The assailant, Thomas Matthew Crooks, reportedly scouted the site and meticulously planned his attack. Experts and observers criticize the security lapses that allowed the gunman to access a sniper's position with a clear line of sight to the former president.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, embarked on a meticulous plan to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania. Retired Secret Service agent Bill Gage and security expert David Katz analyze the evidence, suggesting that Crooks conducted extensive reconnaissance and meticulously prepared for his attack.

Crooks purchased ammunition hours before the rally and acquired a ladder from Home Depot, indicating his intention to access an elevated sniper's position. He also carried a range-finder, a device used to determine the distance to a target, hinting at his meticulous preparations.

Trump Assassination Attempt: Timeline and Security Failures Revealed

Despite the Secret Service's awareness of potential security vulnerabilities presented by the building where Crooks took position, no personnel were placed on the roof. This decision has been widely criticized as a glaring security failure, leaving the former president exposed to a clear line of fire.

Former congressional candidate Sean Parnell, who witnessed the attack firsthand, expressed disbelief at the unsecured rooftop, questioning why an individual could approach the building so close to the presidential stage.

Trump Assassination Attempt: Timeline and Security Failures Revealed

Thirty minutes prior to the attack, an officer reported sighting Crooks carrying a range-finder near the rally venue. However, this sighting was reportedly disregarded by Pennsylvania State Police. PSP claims to have deployed dozens of troopers at the Secret Service's request, but they were not responsible for securing the building or its surroundings.

Federal authorities are conducting an extensive investigation into Crooks' motives and potential assistance. The FBI is examining his electronic devices and interviewing witnesses to piece together the timeline of events. Searches of his home and vehicle have concluded.

Trump Assassination Attempt: Timeline and Security Failures Revealed

The Department of Homeland Security's inspector general has initiated an inquiry into the Secret Service's handling of security at the event. Questions remain about why the rooftop, a known security vulnerability, was left unsecured and why the initial sighting of Crooks was disregarded.

The assassination attempt raises concerns about the effectiveness of security measures intended to protect high-profile figures and the need for heightened vigilance against potential threats.

Trump Assassination Attempt: Timeline and Security Failures Revealed