FBI Releases Details of Trump Shooter’s Internet Search History, Photos of Gun, Backpack, Explosives
The FBI has provided new insights into the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, shedding light on the actions and planning of the would-be assassin, Thomas Crooks.
USA Today reported that the FBI revealed these details in a recent conference call briefing, marking a significant development in the ongoing investigation.
Special Agent Kevin Rojek, in charge of the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office, explained that an analysis of Crooks’ online search history showed “detailed attack planning” before the Butler, Pennsylvania rally where Trump was shot.
Despite this insight into Crooks’ activities, Rojek stated that a clear motive remains elusive.
“The FBI’s analysis into Crooks’ activities provided valuable insight into his mindset, but not a definitive motive,” Rojek noted.
The investigation revealed that Crooks had been searching for information on campaign events for both Trump and President Biden.
He had also conducted alarming searches for materials and information related to explosive devices.
These searches included phrases like “detonating cord,” “blasting cap,” “how to make a bomb from fertilizer,” and “how do remote detonators work.”
The FBI noted that these searches began as early as September 2019, indicating that Crooks had been planning the attack for a considerable period.
Further searches by Crooks for specific explosive materials, such as ammonium nitrate and nitromethane, were also uncovered.
These materials are commonly associated with the construction of explosive devices, USA noted.
The FBI has not yet disclosed if any physical evidence of explosive devices was found in Crooks’ possession, but the search history suggests a troubling intent to explore various methods of causing harm.
The FBI also released the first photographs of the semi-automatic DPMS DR-15 rifle used by Crooks during the shooting.
Alongside the rifle, the bureau also showcased a black backpack with orange and white accents, recovered at the scene of the attack.
A caption accompanying the photos explained, “Thomas Crooks’ rifle broken down as was likely done for transport and the backpack recovered onsite.”
These images provide a visual representation of the tools Crooks intended to use, offering a stark reminder of the potential devastation that was narrowly avoided.
Robert Wells, executive assistant director of the FBI’s national security branch, addressed the lack of a clear motive during the briefing.
He emphasized that, despite thorough investigation, the FBI has not found evidence pointing to a specific reason for Crooks’ actions.
Furthermore, the bureau has not identified any co-conspirators who may have known about or assisted in planning the assassination attempt.
Wells was explicit in ruling out foreign involvement, stating, “And I want to be clear, we have not seen any indication to suggest Crooks was directed by a foreign entity to conduct the attack.”
This statement helps to narrow the scope of the investigation, focusing primarily on Crooks’ individual motives and actions.
The attempted assassination, while failing to fatally wound Trump, had tragic consequences.
Crooks’ bullet struck Trump’s ear, narrowly missing a fatal shot. However, some members of the audience were less fortunate.
Corey Comperatore lost his life while shielding his wife and daughters from the gunfire, demonstrating a heroic and selfless act in the face of danger.
Two other men were severely wounded but survived, underscoring the potential for even greater tragedy that was narrowly averted.
As the FBI continues its investigation, questions about Crooks’ motivations and the full extent of his planning remain unanswered.
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At first I was like “that Magpul CTR stock doesn’t extend like that” and then I was like “oh, yeah.”