A recent FBI investigation uncovered that Thomas Crooks, 20, who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump, had also researched a member of the Royal family.
Days before the attack, Crooks scouted the venue for Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
In a briefing with Congress, the FBI disclosed that Crooks’ electronic devices contained Google searches for a royal figure, FBI Director Christopher Wray, and Attorney General Merrick Garland. Images of Trump, Joe Biden, and a list of Trump’s appearances were also found.
The US Secret Service faces scrutiny for lapses in Trump’s protection, as a bullet grazed Trump’s ear during the attack. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas admitted to a “failure” in security measures and announced an independent review.
The House Oversight Committee subpoenaed Secret Service Director Kim Cheatle.
Speaker Mike Johnson plans to form a task force to investigate. Cheatle labeled the incident “unacceptable.”
Security has been tightened for Trump, Biden, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The investigation into Crooks’ motives is ongoing, complicated by his politically divided hometown of Bethel Park.
Crooks, a member of a local gun club, was killed during the incident. Despite his shy demeanor, former classmates and his school counselor expressed surprise at his actions. His online presence left no signs of planning or political discussions.
