The US Department of Homeland Security’s Inspector General has launched an investigation into the Secret Service’s handling of security during the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024. The investigation aims to evaluate the Secret Service’s process for securing the event, where a gunman, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was able to get within 135 meters of Trump before opening fire.The incident resulted in Trump being wounded in the upper part of his right ear, one attendee killed, and two others critically injured. Secret Service Director Kim Cheatle has acknowledged responsibility for the security failure, describing it as ‘unacceptable’ and promising full cooperation with the investigation.This probe comes in addition to an independent review ordered by President Joe Biden. DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas stated, ‘A direct line of sight like that to the former president should not occur’.The FBI is also investigating the incident as an assassination attempt, having conducted nearly 100 interviews and received hundreds of digital media tips. Despite increased security measures due to a prior threat from Iran, questions remain about how Crooks was able to access a nearby rooftop with a direct line of sight to where Trump was speaking.The motive behind the attack remains unclear, with no evidence of strong political beliefs or clear reasons for the assault found so far. As the investigation continues, many are attempting to fill the void with partisan assumptions and conspiracy theories.
Key points
- The Department of Homeland Security’s Inspector General is investigating the Secret Service’s handling of security during the Trump assassination attempt.
- The gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was able to get within 135 meters of Trump despite increased security measures.
- The incident resulted in Trump being wounded, one attendee killed, and two others critically injured.
- The motive behind the attack remains unclear, with no evidence of strong political beliefs found so far.
Contradictionsđź‘ľWhile most sources report the attack happening on July 13, 2024, one source states it occurred on July 14, 2024.
