The Attempted Assassination of Former President Donald Trump: New Details Revealed by FBI Director
Testifying before Congress on Wednesday, FBI Director Christopher Wray provided new insights into the criminal investigation surrounding the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump earlier this month. Wray’s testimony shed light on critical details that have emerged in the case.
Recovery of Drone and Examination of Explosive Devices
Wray confirmed to the House Judiciary Committee that investigators recovered a drone from the car of the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20. The gunman was seen flying the drone for approximately 11 minutes before carrying out the attack on Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Additionally, FBI labs are currently examining three explosive devices found in the possession of the shooter – two in his vehicle and one in his residence.
Transitioning to the recovery of the drone, Wray highlighted that it did not fly directly over the stage where Trump was present but was situated approximately 200 yards away. This information provides crucial insight into the planning and execution of the attempted assassination.
Timeline of the Attack and Investigation Progress
The events leading up to the attempted assassination on July 13th, where Crooks fired shots at Trump from the roof of a nearby warehouse, resulting in injuries to several individuals, were outlined by Wray. The gunman was subsequently neutralized by a Secret Service sniper, preventing further harm.
Discussing the examination of the explosive devices, Wray described them as “relatively crude” but possessing remote detonation capabilities. Despite the shooter’s attempt to trigger the devices from his location on the roof, it was determined that such a method would not have been successful.
Commitment to Uncovering the Truth and Ensuring Justice
Wray emphasized the FBI’s dedication to unraveling the shooter’s motivations, mental state, and ideological beliefs. The attempted assassination was condemned as an attack on democracy and the democratic process, signaling zero tolerance for political violence of any kind.
Assuring the American people of ongoing efforts to uncover the truth behind the assassination attempt, Wray reiterated the FBI’s commitment to exhaustive investigative work. The search for answers continues to evolve, with every avenue being explored to ensure accountability and justice.
This is a developing story. Please stay tuned for updates as the investigation progresses.
