Law enforcement officials have uncovered new details about the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania. The shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, had informed his employer that he needed the day off for 'something to do' and was seen at the security screening area for the rally carrying a rangefinder, a device used by hunters and target shooters to measure distances for long-range shots.
Despite passing through security with the rangefinder, Crooks attracted suspicion and was closely monitored by security personnel. Investigators believe that Crooks left the screening area to retrieve a rifle from his car.
Witnesses later reported seeing Crooks crawling on the roof of a building, where he was observed by a counter-sniper team using the rangefinder to surveil their position. Crooks gained access to the rooftop by climbing on the building's air conditioning system.
After the shooting, law enforcement found a bulletproof vest, loaded magazines, and explosive devices in Crooks' car. Further searches of his residence uncovered additional weapons and a 3D printer. Crooks had also received packages marked as potentially containing hazardous materials in recent months.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine Crooks' motive and whether he had a plan to use the additional weapons and explosives. Crooks' father had reported him missing on the day of the shooting, believing his son had gone to a shooting range with the rifle.
