BUTLER, Pennsylvania – The world watched in horror as an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump unfolded on live television during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening.
The former president was delivering a speech at the Butler Farm Show grounds when, six minutes into his address, gunfire erupted. The FBI identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, who had positioned himself on a rooftop just outside the rally’s security perimeter, armed with an AR-style weapon.
Chaos ensued as the first shots were fired. Witnesses described a scene of panic and confusion, with one bullet reportedly grazing Trump’s ear, prompting him to duck. Secret Service agents swiftly responded, with five agents rushing to the stage to protect Trump. Additional bursts of gunfire echoed across the rally site, heightening the panic.
Within forty-three seconds of the initial shot, a Secret Service agent declared the shooter down. Despite his injuries, Trump managed to stand and raise his fist in a defiant gesture to his supporters before being escorted off the stage and into his SUV by agents.
Tragically, at least three rally attendees were shot, with one succumbing to their injuries. Eyewitness Ben Macer recalled seeing the gunman moving “from roof to roof” shortly before the attack and attempting to alert an officer moments before the shooting began.
Federal authorities are investigating Crooks and his potential motives. On Sunday, it was revealed that the firearm used in the attack was legally purchased by Crooks’ father. Federal agents are still working to determine how Crooks, who has no military affiliation, obtained the weapon.
Law enforcement swarmed a home in Bethel Park, believed to be connected to Crooks. The Bethel Park Police Department confirmed a bomb investigation at the suspect’s residence, with bomb-making materials reportedly found at the scene.
The former president was transported to a local hospital, where he received medical attention. The Secret Service communications chief assured the public via X (formerly Twitter) that Trump was “safe” and that the incident was under investigation. A spokesman for Trump later confirmed that the former president was “fine” and undergoing a medical examination.
Trump provided further details on his social media platform, Truth Social, explaining that a bullet had pierced the upper part of his right ear, causing significant bleeding. He expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their rapid response and offered condolences to the families of the rally attendees who lost their lives.
As the investigation continues, this incident underscores the volatile and dangerous climate surrounding political figures today. The world watches closely as more details emerge and authorities work to uncover the motivations behind this violent act.