Republican Pennsylvania Rep. Mike Kelly, chairman of the House task force on the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, raised concerns about the law enforcement response to gunman Thomas Crooks at the Butler Farm Show fairgrounds in Butler, Pennsylvania. The shooting occurred during Trump's campaign rally on July 13, resulting in one fatality and two severe injuries.
Kelly questioned the delay in taking action when the sniper had Crooks in sight but was waiting for authorization to shoot. The bipartisan task force, established through a House resolution with unanimous support, is actively investigating the incident to determine any potential negligence.
During a visit to the site, lawmakers observed unsecured lines of sight and the location from where Crooks fired shots at Trump. The FBI revealed that Crooks spent significant time on the rally grounds before the shooting, even flying a drone over the area.
Law enforcement had prior encounters with Crooks, including spotting him on the roof of the building minutes before the shooting. Despite reporting a suspicious person, shots were fired shortly after, leading to casualties.
The task force aims to restore public confidence in leaders' security measures. FBI officials are delving into Crooks' motives and potential accomplices, although initial findings suggest he acted alone.
As investigations continue, the task force remains committed to uncovering the truth behind the assassination attempt and ensuring accountability for any lapses in security protocols.
