Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, Identified As Shooter In Attempted Assassination Of Donald Trump

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks as the suspected shooter behind the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump, according to a statement released today.

Attack on Trump

Crooks, 20, was killed by security officials when he allegedly opened fire at the 78-year-old Republican presidential candidate, injuring his ear during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. State voter records indicate that he was registered as a Republican.

“The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania,” the FBI said in a statement quoted by NBC and CBS.

Earlier, law enforcement officials had told reporters they had tentatively identified the suspected shooter but were not ready to release the information publicly. They also mentioned that the motive was still unknown. The FBI, leading the investigation, confirmed that the incident was being treated as “an assassination attempt” against the former president.

Trump was hit in the ear in the shocking shooting, which left a bystander dead and two others critically injured. He was quickly rushed off stage by US Secret Service agents, with blood visible on his face.

The gunshots rang out just as Trump began speaking at his final rally before the Republican National Convention. Thousands of his supporters were present, and the shooting was captured live by news channels.

Also read: India Stands Against Political Violence, Says PM Modi After Trump Attack

In his first account of the attack, Trump said, “I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.”

“I knew immediately that something was wrong when I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and felt the bullet ripping through the skin,” Trump shared on his Truth Social site. “Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.”

He also expressed gratitude to the Secret Service and law enforcement for their “rapid response.”

“It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country,” he added.

The shocking incident occurred less than four months before the November 5 US presidential election, where Trump is set to face a rematch with Democratic President Joe Biden.