Previous to the assault, Crooks had no recognized associations with extremist teams, a regulation enforcement supply stated.
Pals and acquaintances from Crooks’ highschool have additionally described him as a quiet but clever particular person who confirmed no indicators of violent tendencies.
“We’re all shocked. This isn’t the Thomas we knew,” stated one fellow highschool graduate who wished to stay nameless.
In a press release, the FBI stated:
“The FBI has recognized Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the topic concerned within the assassination try of former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania. This stays an lively and ongoing investigation, and anybody with data that will help with the investigation is inspired to submit pictures or movies on-line at FBI.gov/butler or name 1-800-CALL-FBI.”
“We don’t presently have an recognized motive,” added Kevin Rojek, FBI Pittsburgh particular agent in cost, at a briefing Saturday night time.
Crooks opened fireplace with an AR-style rifle from a place on the roof of a shed outdoors the safety perimeter.