In a harrowing incident that unfolded at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a 20-year-old gunman used an AR-style rifle, purchased by his father, in an attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. The Wall Street Journal reported that the assailant, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire on Trump during the event on Saturday.

The Secret Service responded swiftly, with snipers neutralizing Crooks moments after he fired several rounds toward Trump. Although Trump narrowly escaped with a bullet grazing his ear, the attack claimed the life of one rally attendee and critically injured two others.

In the aftermath of the shooting, law enforcement officials discovered explosive devices in Crooks’ car, which was parked near the rally site. Sources disclosed to the Journal that this prompted multiple reports of suspicious packages in the vicinity, leading authorities to deploy bomb technicians to secure the area. The painstaking process of clearing the scene continued well into the night.

Further investigations led officials to search Crooks’ family home early Sunday morning. A neighbor informed The Post that a bomb squad arrived, acting on a report of explosives at the residence.

As of now, authorities have not disclosed any potential motives behind Crooks’ actions. The tragic events have cast a shadow over the rally and raised serious concerns about security at political events.

The Secret Service, along with local and federal law enforcement agencies, continue to investigate the incident, ensuring that all aspects of the attack and the assailant’s background are thoroughly examined.

Credit: New York Post