U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley has recently shared a video on social media that shows the aftermath of the tragic killing of Thomas Crooks, the man responsible for the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. The video, obtained from the Beaver County Emergency Services Unit, shows law enforcement agents on a rooftop alongside Crooks’ body, bringing to light the severity of the incident and the need for answers and accountability.
The incident occurred on July 13th during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Trump was shot in the ear. Crooks, who had opened fire at the event, was shot and killed by law enforcement after he had also killed one person and wounded two others. The body camera footage posted by Senator Grassley shows Crooks’ body on the roof of the building from where he fired, with blood visible near his body.
In his post, Senator Grassley demanded detailed answers and transparency regarding the security failures that allowed this tragedy to occur. He emphasized that transparency is crucial in bringing accountability for such incidents. The video also shows a person in a black suit and sunglasses speaking with law enforcement officers who were armed and wearing body armor. The officer recording the video points out a rifle lying on the roof, although it is unclear if it belonged to Crooks.
The officer also mentions that a sniper had seen a person coming from a bike and setting a backpack down, but lost sight of him. It is not confirmed if the officer is referring to Crooks. Senator Grassley stated that the video was obtained after requests from Congress to the Beaver County Emergency Services Unit, a tactical team that responds to high-risk incidents. The U.S. Secret Service and Beaver County Sheriff’s Office have not yet commented on the video.
The incident has sparked outrage and concern among both Democratic and Republican lawmakers in Congress, who are demanding answers on how Crooks was able to open fire at a former president. The Department of Homeland Security Office of the Inspector General has opened three reviews surrounding the incident. In light of the incident, U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle has resigned, taking full responsibility for the security lapse.
The motive behind Crooks’ actions is still unknown. At a House Homeland Security Committee hearing, Pennsylvania State Police Col. Christopher Paris revealed that Crooks had been identified as suspicious before the shooting. He was seen “milling about” and standing out to law enforcement because he did not attempt to enter the venue. He was also spotted with a range finder. The Butler County Emergency Services Unit, responsible for securing the building where Crooks fired from, relayed their suspicions and a photo of Crooks to the state police, who then passed it on to the Secret Service. However, Crooks was not designated as an actual threat until seconds before he opened fire.
In the wake of this incident, Trump, now the official Republican nominee for president, has decided to no longer hold outdoor rallies and instead hold them indoors. This decision comes after the assassination attempt on his life. The current plans are for these events to be held indoors, according to sources familiar with his campaign’s operations.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of security measures and the need for transparency and accountability. Senator Grassley’s demand for answers and the resignation of the U.S. Secret Service Director highlight the seriousness of the situation. It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to work together and ensure the safety of all individuals, especially high-profile figures like former presidents.
In conclusion, the recent assassination attempt on former President Trump has raised concerns and sparked a call for action. The sharing of the body camera footage by Senator Grassley has shed light on the severity of the incident and the need for transparency and accountability. It is essential for authorities to take necessary measures to prevent such incidents from happening in the future. Let us hope that this tragedy serves as a wake-up call and leads to stricter security protocols to ensure the safety of all individuals.
