Former President of the United States, Donald Trump, was on Saturday shot at and injured in the ear as he campaigned at a rally in Pennsylvania.
At around a quarter to six pm (22:15 GMT), according to international media, at least five shots were heard. Trump is seen ducking to the ground while several Secret Service agents rushed to his rescue to surround him.
A few minutes later, Trump is seen being lifted to his feet and escorted hurriedly to his motorcade. On his face, blood could be seen coming out of his right ear and dripping across his cheek. He maintains his composure as he pumps his fists in the air shouting “Fight!” to his supporters as he is whisked away.
The Secret Service Report
According to the US Secret Service report, the shots were reportedly fired “from an elevated position outside the rally venue”. Trump is said to have been about 400-500 feet (120-150 meters) from his attacker. The relevant authorities “neutralized the shooter”, who is now dead.
Who shot Trump and why? The attacker has been identified by the FBI as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks. Thomas had not carried his ID and the FBI used DNA and facial recognition technology to identify him.
An eyewitness told BBC News that he saw an attacker climbing on the roof of a low-rise building. The building is just outside the security perimeter and he had a rifle. He quickly alerted the nearby police officers of the potential threat.
One other person at the rally, identified as a Pennsylvania firefighter, Corey Comperatore, was killed in the Saturday shooting. Two other men are in critical condition, officials said.
“This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at FBI.gov/butler or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.”
People Who Knew Crooks
A classmate of Crooks, Jason Koehler, said Crooks was a loner who was bullied relentlessly for his appearance and wore camouflage (hunting) outfits in class. He said Crooks was hypervigilant and would often sit in the cafeteria alone. He is said to have worn surgical masks long after the COVID-19 pandemic happened. Crooks held a membership at Clairton Sportmen’s Club for at least one year. The president of Clairton Club, Pennsylvania, Bill Selliot, told CBS News.
The inquiry into what transpired is underway and could last for months on end. The investigators have promised to work round the clock to identify Crooks’ motive, Mr Rojek, an investigator said. Crooks’ family is cooperating with the FBI.
What Next For Trump
Trump’s winning percentage is said to have risen to 66% after the attempted assassination. According to the political betting platform, PredictIt, his odds were around 60% showing an increased lead. He has established a strong lead over Biden since the June 27 debate.
The election campaign has been marked by widespread threats against politicians and activists, with several reported incidents since December 2023.
The 2024 United States of America general elections are scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
