Former US President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday. The violent incident resulted in the death of one spectator and left two others critically injured. The attacker, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, was shot and killed by a Secret Service agent at the scene.
Shocking Footage Captures the Moment of the Attack
A dramatic video circulating on social media captured the exact moment when Crooks fired at Trump. In the footage, Crooks is seen in a firing stance, aiming directly at the former president. Gunshots ring out, causing pandemonium among the crowd. Trump, 78, is shown grabbing his ear as the bullets flew, while attendees screamed and someone repeatedly yelled, “Get down!” Secret Service agents swiftly moved to shield Trump from further danger.
Immediate Response and Aftermath
Blood was seen gushing from Trump’s ear as he was rushed off the stage. Despite the chaos, Trump managed to pump his fist into the air and urged the crowd to “fight” before being whisked away to a Pittsburgh-area hospital. A spokesperson for Trump’s campaign later confirmed that the former president was fine after what they described as a “heinous act.”
Trump took to his Truth Social media account to describe the incident and his injuries, posting, “It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. 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 realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!”
Ongoing Investigation
The FBI has taken over the investigation into the shooting, with special agents from the Pittsburgh Field Office responding immediately. Authorities have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact their tip line. The FBI, along with the US Secret Service and state and local law enforcement, is dedicated to supporting the investigation with all available resources.
A Nation Unites Against Violence
The shooting has united US political leaders across the spectrum. President Joe Biden condemned the attack, stating that there is “no place in America for this kind of violence.” The incident has sparked a renewed call for unity and a strong stand against political violence in the country.