Thomas Matthew Crooks, the man behind the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, strategically hid his rifle well in advance of the rally, intending to carry out a sniper attack, according to a Secret Service source.
Crooks, who positioned himself on a rooftop overlooking the rally site in Pennsylvania, managed to conceal the high-powered rifle days before the event. This revelation highlights the calculated nature of his plan, which aimed to target Trump from a distance.
The Secret Service source indicated that Crooks took significant measures to ensure his weapon remained hidden until the day of the rally. By stashing the rifle in a discreet location, he avoided raising suspicion and ensured it was readily accessible for the attack.
Investigators have been piecing together Crooks’ actions leading up to the event. Surveillance footage and witness statements have helped to reconstruct his movements, revealing that he meticulously prepared for the assassination attempt.
Crooks, described by those who knew him as a quiet and reserved individual, had no prior criminal record or known affiliations with extremist groups. This has led authorities to delve deeper into his background and personal life, seeking to understand what drove him to such an extreme act.
The attempted assassination, which occurred during Trump’s speech at the rally, was thwarted by quick actions from the Secret Service and local law enforcement. Crooks was apprehended before he could fire the concealed weapon, preventing what could have been a catastrophic event.
The Secret Service has since enhanced security measures and reviewed protocols for safeguarding public figures, particularly at large events. The agency is also examining how Crooks managed to hide the rifle and whether there were any lapses in security that allowed him to get so close to the target.
This incident has sparked a broader conversation about the safety of political figures and the need for stringent security measures at public events. Authorities are now more vigilant, ensuring that similar plots are detected and thwarted before they can be executed.
As the investigation continues, more details about Crooks’ planning and execution are expected to emerge. The Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies remain committed to uncovering all aspects of the case to prevent future threats and enhance the security of public figures.