An investigation into the shooting incident at former President Trump's rally in Pennsylvania has revealed a significant lapse in security by the Secret Service. Acting Director Ronald Rowe acknowledged that the agency failed to provide adequate protection for the protectee, leading to tragic consequences.
Video footage obtained from a source shows a figure moving across the roof of a nearby building just minutes before gunfire erupted at the rally. The footage captured at 6:08 p.m. on July 13 depicts the individual walking on the roof adjacent to where Trump was speaking, raising concerns about the lack of surveillance in the area.
Authorities believe that the gunman, identified as Thomas Crooks, opened fire with a collapsible AR-15-style rifle around 6:11 p.m. Counter snipers swiftly neutralized Crooks, but not before he fatally shot Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief, and critically wounded James Copenhaver and David Dutch.
Copenhaver, who was not filming at the time of the shooting, sustained critical injuries and is currently undergoing rehabilitation. Despite being discharged from the hospital, he continues to recover from the traumatic incident.
The Secret Service has admitted to shortcomings in their security protocols and vowed to enhance their measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The tragic events at the rally serve as a stark reminder of the importance of robust security measures in safeguarding public figures and events.
