jfid – Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old man from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was the perpetrator involved in the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Crooks was shot dead by Secret Service agents seconds after he fired shots towards the stage where Trump was speaking. In addition to Crooks, a 50-year-old spectator also died, and two other spectators were critically injured.
Background of Thomas Matthew Crooks
Thomas Matthew Crooks was a graduate of Bethel Park High School and had recently completed an associate degree in engineering from the Community College of Allegheny County.
A former classmate from Bethel Park, who chose to remain anonymous, described Crooks as intelligent and often involved in activities such as building computers and playing games.
His classmates were shocked by Crooks’ actions as he was known to be a quiet individual who did not show any particular interest in politics during his school years.
Crooks, who was registered as a Republican voter, also made a small $15 donation to a progressive political action committee in 2021. However, records show that he later registered as a Republican voter, adding to the confusion about his motives.
Reactions and Investigation
Following the incident, the FBI conducted an in-depth investigation into Crooks’ background, including his family history and online activities. They found that Crooks did not have a significant digital footprint or clear political affiliations.
Some classmates mentioned that Crooks was often bullied during school, but others refuted this claim, describing him as a kind and intelligent individual.
Police discovered bomb-making materials in Crooks’ car, and the AR-15 used in the shooting was legally purchased by his father. This event shocked the small community of Bethel Park, known for its peaceful environment.
Overall, Thomas Matthew Crooks was known as a quiet and intelligent person whose actions starkly contrasted with the character recognized by his friends. The motive behind the attempted assassination of Trump remains a mystery and is still under investigation by authorities.
