August 28th 2024.
The FBI has recently released new photos that shed light on the events surrounding the shooting of former President Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. These photos reveal the gun used by the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, as well as the backpack and explosives found in his car at the rally. These pictures were released overnight, along with new information from FBI officials about Crooks' internet searches leading up to the shooting and how these searches have helped piece together his mindset on that fateful day.
One striking detail in the photos is the collapsible stock of the firearm, which investigators believe may have been used to conceal the rifle at the rally. The FBI also presented evidence on Wednesday that showed how Crooks had initially researched campaign events for both Trump and President Joe Biden before becoming "hyper-focused" on the Pennsylvania rally, which was only 40 minutes away from his home. Kevin Rojek, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Pittsburgh Field Office, explained that Crooks saw the rally as a "target of opportunity," but as of now, no motive has been identified and officials have stated that Crooks did not have a definitive ideology.
Rojek further elaborated on the extensive online searches made by Crooks, showing his sustained effort to plan an attack on multiple events or targets. However, when the Trump rally was announced, his focus became fixated on that specific event. The FBI also revealed Crooks' detailed searches of the rally location, including the specific building where he was located when he opened fire. For example, on July 6, nearly a week before the rally, Crooks searched for the location of where Trump would speak at the Butler Farm Show, as well as photos of the podium and the show itself.
In response to conspiracy theories surrounding the attack, the FBI has vehemently denied any involvement of a second shooter targeting Trump that day. Rojek stated that there was no evidence to support this claim. When asked about Crooks' motive, Bobby Wells, the executive assistant director of the FBI's National Security Branch, said that while investigators have a clearer understanding of his mindset, they have not yet identified a motive or any co-conspirators or associates who had prior knowledge of the attack.
Wells also emphasized that there is no indication that Crooks was directed by a foreign entity. In regards to Crooks' past online posts, some of which may have seemed politically motivated, the FBI has found a mix of ideologies but no definitive lean towards any specific political stance. Overall, the FBI continues to investigate and gather more information about Crooks and his actions leading up to the shooting. Stay updated on all the latest news, celebrity gossip, and sports updates by following our WhatsApp channel. Join now for a personalized news experience with no comments or algorithms and the reassurance that your private information remains secure.
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