The FBI has identified the now-deceased gunman who fired shots at former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Trump was shot in the ear during a campaign rally on Saturday, an incident that is expected to significantly impact the upcoming presidential race and raise concerns about political violence. The attack occurred after a major security lapse, prompting swift and chaotic scenes at the rally.
Moments after the shooting, Trump was shielded by his security agents and quickly re-emerged with blood streaked across his face. Despite the injury, he defiantly pumped his fist in the air, reportedly mouthing the words "Fight! Fight! Fight!" The Trump campaign later reassured the public that he was "doing well" following the incident.
The shooter has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, CNN reports. Crooks was fatally shot by a Secret Service sniper at the scene. The FBI emphasized that the investigation into the assassination attempt remains active and ongoing, urging anyone with information to come forward.
Kevin Rojek, FBI Pittsburgh special agent in charge, stated that the motive behind the shooting remains unknown at this time.
Due to the gunman not having any identification on him, federal investigators utilized DNA analysis to confirm his identity biometrically. The shooting resulted in the death of one audience member at the rally, with two others currently in critical condition; all victims are men, although their identities have not yet been released.
Following the incident, Trump disclosed on social media that he sustained an injury to the upper part of his right ear from a bullet. He received medical attention at a local hospital before departing under Secret Service protection and subsequently flying to New Jersey late Saturday night.
Law enforcement sources revealed that the gunman opened fire with an AR-style rifle from a distance of 200 to 300 feet away from the rally stage, positioned on the roof of a shed outside the security perimeter.
Witnesses described seeing the gunman climbing towards the building shortly after Trump began his speech, with some attempting to alert authorities and Secret Service agents before shots were fired.
Following the incident, Trump was evacuated under the protection of the U.S. Secret Service and Pennsylvania state police, eventually arriving at his golf resort and residence in Bedminster, New Jersey.
The shooting has sparked a renewed focus on security measures for presidential candidates and heightened tensions as the race progresses.
The FBI is leading the investigation into the shooting, continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine the circumstances and motive behind the attack on the former president.