Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump, had a troubled history that hinted at darker intentions.
From being rejected by his high school rifle club to his disturbing behavior, here’s a closer look at his past.
During his time at Bethel Park High School, Crooks tried out for the rifle team but was swiftly rejected.
According to fellow students, his shooting skills were so poor that he was deemed a danger.
Jameson Murphy recalled how Crooks’ attempts were marked by comically bad shots, including one that missed the target by nearly 20 feet.
Aside from his lack of marksmanship, Crooks reportedly made inappropriate jokes about guns, raising red flags among his peers.
His demeanor and comments were unsettling, especially given the setting of a school environment where firearms were involved.
Fast forward to July 2024, Crooks made headlines by firing an AR-style rifle at Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
The incident, which occurred from a rooftop 130 yards away, shocked the nation and left one bystander dead while injuring two others critically.
Background and Employment
Before the attack, Crooks worked as a dietary aide at a local nursing and rehabilitation center, where he had no prior incidents or red flags in his background check.
His sudden turn to violence perplexed those who knew him in his professional capacity.
Aftermath and Response
In the aftermath, law enforcement and the community grappled with the motives behind Crooks’ actions, as he had no criminal record prior to the attack.
The incident prompted widespread condemnation and calls for unity from political figures, including President Biden and former President Obama.
Conclusion
Thomas Matthew Crooks’ journey from a troubled high school student to an attempted assassin highlights the complexities of identifying potential threats and the impact of such tragic events on national discourse.