The 20-year-old man who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania meticulously prepared for the attack, according to a report by CNN.
Stocking up on ammunition
Thomas Matthew Crooks made several stops to gather supplies before the attack. On Friday, the day before the rally, Crooks practiced shooting at a local range. The next morning, he visited Home Depot to purchase a five-foot ladder and later bought 50 rounds of ammunition from a gun store.
Crooks used the ladder to climb onto a building from where he opened fire at the 78-year-old Republican nominee. Secret Service agents responded swiftly, fatally shooting Crooks after he attacked Trump.
Investigation into motives
Authorities are still piecing together Crooks’ actions leading up to the assassination attempt. Despite accessing his phone and computer, investigators have not found evidence indicating a political or ideological motive for the shooting, law enforcement sources told CNN.
Trump survived the attack with a minor injury during his rally in Pennsylvania. The bullet nicked the “upper part of his right ear,” leaving him with a bloodied face. The former president recounted the incident, noting how close he came to serious harm.
Profile of the shooter
Early details about Thomas Matthew Crooks reveal he was a math whiz, working an entry-level job near his hometown in Pennsylvania. He graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022, known among classmates as a bright but “quiet” individual. His counselor described him as “respectful” and mentioned he had never shown any political inclinations.
The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the full context and motives behind Crooks’ actions.