The individual responsible for the shooting at a Donald Trump campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, has been officially identified by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park.
The shocking incident, which is being treated as an assassination attempt, unfolded on Saturday evening. Crooks, positioned on a rooftop outside the rally's security perimeter, opened fire towards the stage where the former President was speaking.
Secret Service snipers responded with lethal force, neutralising the threat. The attack resulted in one rally attendee being critically injured and later succumbing to their wounds. Another spectator was seriously injured.
Miraculous Escape for Former President
Remarkably, former President Trump survived the attempt with only a minor injury to his ear. He was quickly rushed from the stage by his security detail and is reported to be safe. Video footage from the event captured the moment shots rang out, showing Trump clutching his ear as he was surrounded and shielded by agents.
Investigation and Political Fallout
The FBI has confirmed that the investigation into the shooter's motives and potential affiliations is ongoing and active. The event has sent shockwaves through the United States, prompting statements from leaders across the political spectrum condemning the violence.
President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident and delivered a televised address from Delaware, stating, "There's no place for this kind of violence in America. It's sick." The shooting is expected to have profound and immediate repercussions on the security protocols for all major political events and on the tone of the ongoing presidential campaign.
