Pennsylvania, United States – The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified the man who attempted to assassinate former US president Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.
The suspect, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was named by FBI spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi. Crooks, a resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022, receiving his diploma to applause. He had also been awarded a $500 “star award” from the National Math and Science Initiative.
State voter records show that Crooks was a registered Republican, and the forthcoming US presidential election in November would have been the first time he was old enough to vote. At 17, he made a $15 donation to ActBlue, a political action committee supporting Democratic politicians.
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During the assassination attempt on July 13, Trump sustained an injury to his right ear. According to Trump, a bullet “pierced the upper part” of his ear before agents whisked him off stage. Crooks was shot dead at the scene by a US Secret Service officer. One bystander was also killed, and two others were critically injured. The FBI is continuing its investigation to determine Crooks’ motive for the attack. FBI special agent Kevin Rojek stated, “We’re looking at photographs right now and we’re trying to run his DNA and get biometric confirmation.” Crooks’ father, Matthew, is cooperating with law enforcement to understand what led to the incident.
This shocking event comes months before the presidential elections, adding a tense atmosphere to an already heated political climate. The FBI’s investigation is ongoing, with more details expected to emerge in the coming days.
Things to Know About Thomas Matthew Crooks.
Age and Residence: Thomas Matthew Crooks is a 20-year-old resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, located about 35 miles south of Butler.
Education: Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022, where he received his high school diploma to some applause during the graduation ceremony.
Award Recipient: He was awarded a $500 “star award” from the National Math and Science Initiative.
Political Affiliation: State voter records indicate that Crooks was a registered Republican.
First-Time Voter: The upcoming US presidential election in November 2024 would have been the first time Crooks was old enough to vote.
Political Donation: At the age of 17, Crooks made a $15 donation to ActBlue, a political action committee that raises funds for left-leaning and Democratic politicians.
Ongoing Investigation: The FBI is investigating Crooks’ motive for the assassination attempt, with efforts including running his DNA and getting biometric confirmation