Attempted Assassination on Former President Donald Trump

Date and Location

• Date: July 13th
• Place: Butler, Pennsylvania

Context

• Trump was speaking at a rally in Butler just days before he planned to accept the official Republican nomination.

Attacker and Incident Details

• Attacker: 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks
• Weapon: AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, legally purchased by his father

Unfolding of Events

1. Pre-attack Setting

   • Crowd Composition: Tens of thousands of supporters
   • Security: Secret Service agents, snipers on roofs

2. Attack

   • First Shots: Crooks fired three shots, first bullet hit Trump’s right ear.
   • Second Round of Shots: Five more shots, sniper detected the gunman.
   • Neutralization: Crooks was neutralized in 42 seconds after opening fire.

3. Aftermath

   • Victims: One man died (50-year-old Cory Comprador), two critically injured.
   • Trump: Was escorted to an armored vehicle, then hospitalized and flown to New Jersey later that night.

Response and Reactions

• Public Reaction: Photo of bloodied Trump with raised fist became symbolic.
• Political Reaction: Biden and global leaders condemned the attack.

Investigation and Questions

• Outstanding Questions:

  • Why couldn’t forces prevent the attack?
  • Snipers focusing on distant threats possibly.
  • Responsibility of other law enforcement agents?

• Attacker’s Background:

  • No criminal history.
  • Voter registration as a Republican, $15 donation to a liberal group.
  • Kitchen worker, member of shooting club.
  • Suspicious devices found in attacker’s car and home.

Conclusion

• Investigation is ongoing. New information expected. The incident raises substantial questions about security protocols and political violence.