Photo Of Thomas Matthew Crooks, Trump's Attacker Released (image: x.com/stillgray)
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has now released the photo of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old, who shot at Donald Trump and shocked the nation. The incident happened while the Republican Presidential candidate and former President was addressing a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Sunday, and he was shot dead at the scene by Secret Service snipers.
According to investigators, Crooks, carried a semi-automatic AR-15 rifle, opened fire at the former president and the shooting left one audience member dead and hurting two others.
Also Read | Trump Rally Shooting: Important Things To Know
The gunman had positioned himself 130 yards away from the stage at Butler Farm Showgrounds, where the presidential campaign was taking place. The open setting at the Butler Farm Show gave the gunman a clear line of sight to carry out his operation.
The FBI identified Crooks is a resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania and worked in a local nursing home kitchen.
According to US media, voter records shows that he is a registered Republican and the upcoming November 5 election constitute his first vote in a presidential election. Reportedly, he had donated $15 to liberal campaign group ActBlue in 2021.
Crooks graduated in 2022 from Bethel Park High School, and received a $500 “star award” for Maths and Science. After graduation, he started working in nursing home.
Also Read | Donald Trump Shot During Campaign Rally, Suspected Shooter Among 2 Dead
His former classmates describe him as a “quiet”, “socially reserved” and “loner”. They recollect him being bullied a lot for his appearances and clothing choices.
The rifle possibly purchased legally by Crook’s father. Police and agencies are currently probing his motive. His family is cooperating with the investigation.
The shocking incident took place just four months before the November 5 US presidential election. A video of Trump showed with blood-smeared on his face, pumping his fist and muttering “Fight!Fight!” as Secret Service officials escorted him away.
