The release of a chilling new video has shed light on the moments leading up to the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The video, released by clothing company Iron Clad USA, shows Thomas Matthew Crooks casually walking through the crowd nearly two hours before he opened fire on Trump and attendees.
In the video, Crooks is seen wearing a “Demolitia” T-shirt as he strolls past vendors selling Trump merchandise. The footage captures the eerie calmness of Crooks as he blends in with the crowd, giving no indication of the violence he would soon unleash.
The shooting took place on July 13, with Crooks climbing onto the roof of a nearby building and firing eight shots, one of which grazed Trump’s right ear. Tragically, one attendee was fatally struck, and two others were seriously injured in the attack.
The Secret Service is now reviewing the footage as part of their mission assurance review to prevent such operational failures in the future. A preliminary report by Rep. Clay Higgins revealed details of the shooting, including the actions taken by law enforcement to neutralize the threat.
Despite the tragic events, the FBI released Crooks’ body for cremation just 10 days after the incident, sparking controversy and questions about the handling of the case. The investigation into the attempted assassination continues as authorities work to understand the motives and circumstances surrounding the attack.
The release of this new video has reignited interest in the case and raised important questions about security measures at public events. As the investigation unfolds, the nation remains on edge, grappling with the implications of such a brazen attack on a former president.