Thomas Matthew Crooks Update: Details Emerge About Weapons Arsenal and Investigative Developments
As the investigation continues into the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump during his campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, new and unsettling details are emerging about suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks and his extensive weapons arsenal. The shooting incident, which occurred on Saturday afternoon, left Trump injured and led to the death of a rally attendee, while two others sustained critical injuries. The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was shot and killed by the Secret Service during the chaos.
Investigation Reveals Weapons and Explosive Materials
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), working in collaboration with the Secret Service and local law enforcement agencies, is leading the ongoing investigation. On Sunday, authorities disclosed that the firearm used in the attack was legally purchased by Crooks' father. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) confirmed this through an urgent trace. However, investigators are still probing the timeline and circumstances under which Crooks acquired the weapon, given his lack of military background.
In a related development, law enforcement officials have been scouring Crooks' residence in Bethel Park. The area around Milford Drive was cordoned off, and nearby residents were evacuated as authorities conducted a search. Reports indicate that bomb-making materials were discovered both at Crooks' home and inside his vehicle, which was parked in close proximity to the rally site.
The New York Times has reported that two explosive devices were found in Crooks' car. This discovery prompted a swift response from bomb technicians and other experts. According to the Wall Street Journal, suspicious packages were also reported near Crooks' vehicle, further intensifying the situation. Law enforcement sources told ABC News that while the exact nature of the items remains uncertain, there are significant concerns about their potential danger.
Background on Thomas Matthew Crooks
Thomas Matthew Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022. Although he was a registered Republican voter, he made a $15 donation to a left-leaning political campaign group in early 2021, a detail that has drawn attention but remains unexplained. Investigative journalist Meghan Schiller, affiliated with a local CBS News station, reported insights from a former classmate of Crooks. The classmate described him as a socially isolated individual who was frequently bullied and known for wearing "hunting" outfits to school.
Reaction and Next Steps
The revelation of Crooks' weapons arsenal and the potential explosives found at his residence and vehicle has prompted widespread concern. The FBI and other agencies are working to piece together Crooks' motivations and any potential connections to extremist or criminal organizations. This includes assessing whether the attack was part of a larger conspiracy or if Crooks acted independently.
Matthew Crooks, Thomas's father, has declined to make any public statements about his son, citing a desire to first consult with law enforcement officials. The family's silence adds to the growing suspense surrounding the investigation.
The attack on Trump has not only raised questions about security at public events but also about how such a significant breach occurred. The Secret Service and other agencies are facing scrutiny regarding their preparedness and response protocols.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are expected to provide further updates on the case, including potential links to broader security threats. The public and political sphere await additional information that may shed light on the full scope of this disturbing incident.