Gunman Targeted Trump at Pennsylvania Rally After Online Searches

The FBI has revealed that Thomas Matthew Crooks, the gunman in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump, conducted extensive online searches regarding events of Trump and President Joe Biden. Crooks was particularly focused on the Pennsylvania campaign rally where he fired shots. The investigation has yet to determine his clear motive.

The FBI has disclosed that Thomas Matthew Crooks, who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump, extensively searched online for events related to both Trump and President Joe Biden. Officials highlighted Crooks' detailed research into explosives and significant gatherings, identifying the Pennsylvania rally where he attacked as a 'target of opportunity.'

Despite nearly 1,000 interviews, investigators have yet to establish a motive. Crooks, who was 20 years old, engaged in meticulous attack planning, studying multiple campaign events involving both presidents, especially in western Pennsylvania.

FBI analysis of his online activity suggests a sustained and detailed effort to coordinate an assault on a notable event. After a Trump rally was announced for July 13 in Butler, Pennsylvania, Crooks focused intensely on that event. His searches included specific queries like the rally venue layout. His interest in explosives and high-profile political figures has complicated the effort to identify a simple motive. Crooks was killed by a Secret Service sniper after he fired eight shots, one of which struck Trump in the ear.

The FBI's special agent Kevin Rojek stated, 'We have a clear idea of mindset, but we are not ready to make any conclusive statements regarding motive at this time.'

(With inputs from agencies.)