Pre-Attack Preparations
Before the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks made strategic stops in his hometown.
He visited a shooting range on Friday to practice firing, bought a ladder and ammunition the next morning, and then traveled to Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Investigation Insights
As investigators search for motives, they are analyzing Crooks’ actions leading up to the attack.
Despite thorough searches, no evidence of political or ideological motivations has been found in his online activities.
Possible Destruction
Crooks had a remote control detonator and explosives in his car, indicating a potential plan for remote detonation.
There is uncertainty about how the explosive devices in his car were assembled.
Firearm Connection
The AR-style rifle used in the attack was legally purchased by his father, who owned over 20 firearms.
Crooks and his father were members of a gun club and enjoyed shooting together.
Reactions from Local Stores
Crooks bought ammunition at Allegheny Arms and Gun Works and a ladder at Home Depot on the day of the attack.
The stores condemned the violence and expressed sympathy for the victims.
Family Cooperation
Crooks’ parents have been cooperating with law enforcement but claim to have limited knowledge of his recent activities.
Efforts to understand his motives are ongoing despite access to his cell phone.
Read More of this Story at www.cnn.com – 2024-07-16 01:26:00
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