Washington — The Federal Bureau of Investigation on Wednesday made public new photographs and shared insights about the ongoing probe into the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The attack, which occurred on July 13, was carried out by 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, who was subsequently killed by a Secret Service sniper after he opened fire.
According to Kevin Rojek, head of the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office, the investigation into Crooks’ motives and potential accomplices is ongoing, with no conclusive findings as yet. Rojek highlighted the extensive planning that went into the attack, noting that Crooks had become obsessively focused on the rally shortly after it was announced.
Investigators found that Crooks harbored a variety of ideological beliefs, which might have influenced his decision to target the specific event. Although Trump sustained a minor wound and two attendees were injured, the rapid response by the Secret Service prevented further casualties. One other individual, however, was tragically killed during the incident.
More details emerged about Crooks’ activities in the months leading up to the attack. Rojek shared that Crooks used an online account to look up details about campaign events not only for Trump but also for President Biden, as early as nine months prior to the shooting. Specific searches included terms related to the venue at the Butler farm show.
The FBI also disclosed previous searches linked to Crooks dating back to 2019, which included queries for making explosive devices and antisemitic content online. This information is part of the broader effort to understand whether Crooks acted alone and the full scope of his intentions.
During the attack, Crooks fired a total of eight shots, with law enforcement responding with two shots, one from a Secret Service sniper and another from a local officer. Rojek confirmed that there was no indication of a second shooter targeting Trump.
The FBI’s release of photos included images of the weapon used—a DPMS Panther Arms AR-style rifle equipped with an optical sight. This firearm, along with a disassembled version found in Crooks’ possession, was displayed to illustrate how the assailant was able to transport it unseen into the rally.
Additionally, images of two improvised explosive devices discovered in Crooks’ vehicle were shared. These devices, described as crude and improperly constructed, could have caused further devastation had they been operational. FBI Director Chris Wray had previously informed Congress about these findings, underscoring the potential for a more tragic outcome.
In an effort to prevent future incidents, the FBI continues to analyze the evidence collected, including interviews with Trump and cooperation from Crooks’ family, who have been described as extremely helpful. The investigation remains active, with federal authorities piecing together Crooks’ actions and background to better understand the full dimensions of the threat that unfolded that day in Pennsylvania.