Investigation Suggests Thomas Crooks May Have Had Assistance In Trump Assassination Attempt
New developments in the investigation into the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, point to the possibility that Thomas Matthew Crooks, the shooter, did not act alone. The discovery of sophisticated equipment and a lack of evidence of bomb-making research by Crooks raises questions about potential accomplices.
After a Secret Service sniper fatally shot Crooks, police found a cell phone and a bomb detonator next to his body. Exclusive photos from WPXI show these items, which add to the complexity of the case. The Wall Street Journal and CNN previously reported that Crooks had explosives in his car, but details about these devices remain unclear.
Investigators have been unable to find any online search history indicating that Crooks researched how to assemble explosives. This significant gap suggests that Crooks may have had outside help to acquire and construct the devices. Without the necessary knowledge or resources to create bombs, it’s likely someone provided Crooks with assistance.
Further complicating the situation, Crooks was able to enter the rally with a rangefinder, a tool used by snipers to measure distances accurately. The ease with which he accessed a rooftop and targeted Trump indicates a high level of planning and coordination, pointing to possible accomplices.
On the morning of the attack, Crooks bought a 5-foot ladder from Home Depot. However, the ladder found at the scene was larger, raising questions about how Crooks knew he needed a ladder and whether he received additional support.
The attack, which resulted in a bullet grazing President Trump’s ear and injuring other rally attendees, has exposed significant security lapses. Trump’s defiant response, raising his fist and shouting “Fight! Fight! Fight!” as he was escorted to safety, has been widely reported.
Despite the media’s portrayal of Crooks as a lone wolf, the sophistication of the attack and the presence of advanced equipment suggest he had help. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover any individuals or groups who may have assisted Crooks in his attempt to assassinate Trump.