FBI Reveals Gunman Saw Trump Rally as 'Target of Opportunity,' Report Finds

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The FBI has revealed chilling details about the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania last month. According to officials, the gunman, 20-year-old Thomas Crooks, had meticulously planned an attack on a major event before zeroing in on the Trump rally as his "target of opportunity." This revelation sheds light on the calculated nature of the threat and the measures taken by authorities to prevent further escalation.

Thomas Crooks, a resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, had allegedly conducted an extensive search, scouring the internet more than 60 times for information on both Trump and his then-rival, Democratic President Joe Biden. His searches also included details about the rally, demonstrating a clear intent to carry out his plan. FBI officials described Crooks’ actions as a "sustained, detailed effort" to attack a large gathering, with the Trump rally eventually becoming his primary focus.

On the day of the rally, which was held at the Butler Farm Show grounds in Pennsylvania, Crooks positioned himself on the roof of a manufacturing plant, approximately 130 yards from the stage where Trump was addressing his supporters. Armed with an AR-style rifle, Crooks fired shots at the former president, with one bullet reportedly grazing Trump’s ear. The incident triggered immediate action from the US Secret Service, whose snipers quickly neutralized the threat by shooting Crooks.

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In a briefing to reporters, Kevin Rojek, the FBI's top official in western Pennsylvania, provided further insight into the investigation. He emphasized that Crooks had become "hyper-focused" on the Trump rally after it was announced, perceiving it as an ideal opportunity to execute his plan. The FBI's findings indicate that Crooks had been searching for a significant target for some time and that the rally presented itself as the perfect chance for him to carry out his attack.

The aftermath of the shooting saw the recovery of the AR-style rifle used in the attempt. The location of the incident, Butler, is situated about 40 miles north of Bethel Park, where Crooks resided. The fact that Crooks traveled this distance and took up a strategic position suggests the extent of his planning and determination.

The rally itself was momentarily thrown into chaos as gunshots rang out and Secret Service agents rushed to protect Trump. The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by political figures, particularly during highly charged campaign events.

The FBI’s disclosure of these details highlights the severity of the threat and the importance of vigilant security measures. While the immediate danger was neutralized, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with public political events and the lengths to which some individuals will go to disrupt them.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding the full extent of Crooks' motivations and any potential connections that may have influenced his actions. The case is likely to prompt further discussions about security protocols at political events and the need for continued vigilance in the face of such threats.

Aug. 29, 2024 12:06 p.m. 548

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