Rashi Mehta
In a dramatic turn of events, Secret Service snipers thwarted an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The swift response of the Secret Service likely saved Trump’s life and prevented further casualties at the event.
Footage Captures Dramatic Moment
A video circulating on social media platform X shows the rapid response of two Secret Service snipers positioned on a nearby rooftop. As the gunman aimed at Trump, the snipers quickly identified the threat and opened fire. The footage reveals nine shots ringing out, with Trump ducking for cover as Secret Service agents surrounded him. Spectators described the snipers’ actions as “blowing off” the suspect’s head.
The New York Post reported that the assailant, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was stationed on the roof of a manufacturing plant approximately 120 metres from the stage. Armed with an AR-style semi-automatic rifle, Crooks fired multiple shots at Trump.
One video showed Trump tilting his head just milliseconds before a bullet grazed his ear, a movement that likely saved his life. Trump recounted the harrowing experience on Truth Social, saying, “I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening.”
Casualties and Responses
Tragically, one civilian standing behind Trump on the podium was killed in the attack, and another audience member was seriously wounded. Trump was quickly escorted to a safe location and later taken to a local medical facility. Steven Cheung, Trump’s Communications Director, confirmed that Trump was “fine and being checked out.”
Trump expressed his gratitude towards the Secret Service and law enforcement in his social media post, saying, “I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.”
Investigation Underway
Authorities, including the FBI and local law enforcement, are investigating the motive behind Crooks’ actions. Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bevins stated that it is too early to determine if the attack was the work of a “lone wolf” or if others were involved. The investigation is ongoing, with officials following multiple leads.
The incident has raised questions about the security measures at Trump’s rally. Despite being a former president and presumptive GOP nominee, Trump’s Secret Service detail is smaller compared to that of sitting presidents. Reports indicate that additional security requests from Trump’s campaign were not fully met, leaving potential vulnerabilities.
The open-air venue at the Butler Farm Show grounds provided an almost unobstructed line of sight for the shooter, raising concerns about security protocols. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer announced an investigation into the incident, calling for a thorough review of the Secret Service’s protocols and response. Comer stated, “My prayers are with President Trump and the victims of the assassination attempt at today’s rally in Pennsylvania. I thank the brave Secret Service members who put their lives at risk to protect President Trump and for the American patriots in the audience who helped others who were hurt.”
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