A complex portrait is emerging of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Described as a quiet, intelligent loner with few friends and no apparent strong political motives, Crooks’ actions remain a mystery even after extensive FBI investigations. A former student of Bethel Park High School and a Community College of Allegheny County graduate, Crooks had no history of violence but was often bullied. His father legally purchased the AR-15 rifle used in the attack. On the day of the shooting, Crooks bought ammunition, drove alone to the event, and opened fire, injuring Trump and killing one spectator before being fatally shot by a Secret Service agent. Authorities continue to search for a clear motive.
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