Nidhish Waghmare
Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old suspect who opened fire at a Donald Trump rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania, on July 13, had a history of online searches related to President Joe Biden and upcoming events, according to multiple news sources. The investigation into Crooks’ electronic devices revealed his extensive interest in the schedules of both Trump and Biden, raising questions about his motives.
Detailed Searches Found on Suspect’s Devices
Authorities discovered that Crooks had searched for images of Trump, 78, and Biden, 81, as well as dates and locations of their future appearances. This information was reported by The New York Times, CBS News, and ABC News. Additionally, Crooks searched for other prominent government figures, including Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and FBI Director Christopher A. Wray. He also looked up dates for the National Democratic Convention, as noted by the New York Times.
Investigators are delving into Crooks’ electronic devices to uncover potential motives and determine if his political views influenced his actions. Despite their efforts, no clear indication of his political stance or ideologies has been found. However, his search history did include “major depressive disorder,” which could provide some insight into his mental state, according to CBS News and the New York Times.
In a concerning detail, Crooks may have hinted at the attack beforehand by posting on the gaming platform Steam that he would make his “premiere” on July 13, the day of the shooting, according to the New York Times.
Details of the Incident
During the rally, Crooks was positioned on a roof approximately 400 feet from the stage where Trump was speaking. The Secret Service neutralized Crooks after he opened fire, resulting in his death. The attack injured Trump, who later reported on his social media platform, Truth Social, that a bullet grazed the upper part of his right ear. Trump was promptly escorted off the stage by Secret Service agents.
The shooting tragically killed 50-year-old former fire chief Corey Comperatore and critically wounded two other men: David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74.
Crooks’ Background and Identification
Crooks, who did not carry identification during the shooting, was identified through DNA analysis by the FBI, as reported by CBS News. He was a registered Republican and a 2022 graduate of Bethel Park High School, according to a statement from the school. The Associated Press, Reuters, and the New York Times also confirmed his political affiliation.
The investigation into Crooks’ motives continues as authorities analyze the data from his electronic devices. While no concrete political motive has been established, his search history and social media activity provide potential clues to his state of mind leading up to the attack.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings