In a tragic incident at a Pennsylvania rally, Thomas Matthew Crooks attempted to assassinate President Donald J. Trump. Investigations have since revealed a troubling background for the 20-year-old, whose car contained explosives and whose home housed bomb-making materials.
Crooks, who was killed by law enforcement at the scene, had multiple explosive devices, including an IED, in his vehicle. The exact details of these devices have not been disclosed, but their presence has raised significant alarm. Bomb technicians were dispatched to secure the area following reports of suspicious packages.
A search of Crooks’ home uncovered additional bomb-making materials, deepening concerns about his intentions. It is believed that the firearm Crooks used in the attack was purchased by his father at least six months ago. Authorities are investigating how the weapon ended up in Crooks’ hands.
Former classmates describe Crooks as a loner who endured severe bullying. Jason Kohler, who graduated from Bethel Park High School with Crooks, said he often wore hunting outfits to school and had few friends.
“He didn’t really have a full friend group,” Kohler noted.
Another classmate, Jameson Murphy, remembered Crooks’ failed attempt to join the school’s rifle team. According to Murphy, Crooks’ shooting skills were so poor that he missed targets by nearly 20 feet.
“He was such a comically bad shot that he didn’t make the team and left after the first day,” Murphy said.
Crooks also made inappropriate jokes about firearms, which concerned his peers.
“He made some crass jokes that weren’t appropriate given the presence of firearms in the school setting,” Murphy added.
The FBI has not yet released a motive for Crooks’ actions. The ongoing investigation seeks to uncover what led him to attempt the assassination of a former president.
