Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania, was described by former classmates as a bullied loner. Authorities found explosive devices in his car following the incident.
Crooks was stationed on the roof of a manufacturing plant over 130 yards away from the Butler Farm Show grounds where Trump’s rally was taking place. He fired shots that grazed Trump’s ear, killed a volunteer firefighter, and wounded two other individuals. Secret Service snipers quickly returned fire, killing Crooks after he fired approximately eight rounds.
Former classmates from Bethel Park High School, where Crooks graduated in 2022, noted that he was a loner and often bullied. He was known for wearing hunting attire and playing video games during class. Despite being a registered Republican, Crooks had previously made a donation to the liberal ActBlue political action committee on President Joe Biden’s Inauguration Day in 2021.
Crooks used an AR-style semi-automatic rifle purchased by his father and wore a shirt representing a popular gun YouTube channel, Demolition Ranch. Authorities have yet to determine a clear motive for the attack, as no manifesto or detailed explanation has been found. Investigations were delayed due to the discovery of potential explosive devices in Crooks’ car and home.
Crooks’ father expressed shock and confusion over his son’s actions, stating he would wait to speak with law enforcement before commenting further. The aftermath of the shooting showed disturbing images of Crooks’ body and the scene was cordoned off by police, with the bomb squad preparing to enter his home.
