WASHINGTON, USA: The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the suspected shooter in the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
The incident unfolded with gunshots heard during Trump’s speech, after which he was seen with a bloodied right ear. The shooter, who fired from an elevated position outside the venue using an AR-15-style rifle, was killed by law enforcement.
In response to the attack, Trump confirmed on his Truth Social platform that he was shot in the upper part of his right ear but assured the public that he was fine and receiving medical attention. His spokesperson praised law enforcement’s swift response and thanked them for their actions.
President Joe Biden condemned the violence, emphasizing that such acts have no place in America and calling for unity. He expressed disbelief at the political violence and reiterated the need for national cohesion.
The White House confirmed that President Biden had spoken with Trump following the incident, although details of their conversation were not disclosed. The FBI emphasized an ongoing investigation and urged anyone with information to come forward, underscoring the seriousness of the incident and its implications for national security.