Fox News has revealed that the parents of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the man who attempted to assassinate President Donald Trump, alerted law enforcement about his disappearance before the attack. The parents, concerned about Crooks’ whereabouts, contacted authorities on the day of the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
The content of the parents’ conversation with the authorities is not fully known, but the call was made before Crooks opened fire at the rally, killing firefighter Corey Comperatore, who protected his family during the chaos.
Crooks’ parents are cooperating with the investigation, and the FBI is working to uncover the motive behind the attack. This development has led to questions about whether the shooting could have been prevented with better security measures.
Further reports suggest that Crooks meticulously planned the assassination attempt. Observers saw him acting suspiciously with a rangefinder near the rally venue before Trump arrived. Crooks also bought ammunition and a ladder from Home Depot, indicating thorough preparation for the attack.
Former Secret Service agent Bill Gage commented on Fox News Digital, “The purchase of a ladder shows that Crooks had a plan. He scouted the location and decided that a rooftop position with a rifle was the best approach for his attack.”
Like past assassins such as Lee Harvey Oswald and John Hinckley Jr., Crooks conducted a detailed advance of the target. He brought explosive materials in his vehicle and carried body armor, though he did not wear it to avoid detection.
David Katz, a former DEA special agent, highlighted the significance of Crooks using a rangefinder. “The rangefinder indicates that Crooks practiced and was aware of how to sight-in his rifle at the necessary distance and angle,” Katz explained.
The investigation into the attempted assassination continues as authorities gather more information. This incident highlights the need for stringent security protocols and vigilance at events involving high-profile individuals.
