Newly released FBI records are shedding new light on the childhood of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old who opened fire at a campaign rally for Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, in July 2024.
As he grew older, Crooks was described as withdrawn and socially isolated. The records also mention behavior that stood out at school, including instances of him talking to himself. At the same time, he performed well academically and earned strong scores on standardized tests.
The newly surfaced material also details his growing interest in firearms and technology. According to the records, Crooks became skilled with guns and developed a strong interest in cybersecurity. Investigators found that he used different names when purchasing some gun-related materials and other items.
Crooks’ online activity has also been examined as part of the investigation. Separate federal records indicate that he maintained numerous digital accounts and used the pseudonym “Bob Dole” for some purchases. Investigators said they found no evidence of foreign involvement in the attack.
On July 13, 2024, Crooks fired at Trump from a rooftop near the rally in Butler. Trump was struck in the ear, one rally attendee was killed and two others were wounded. Crooks was then killed by a Secret Service counter-sniper. The FBI has said the investigation has focused on reconstructing his actions and determining his motive.
The FBI has previously said it had not identified a definitive motive or any co-conspirators. The newly released records add more information about Crooks’ background, but they do not by themselves establish why he ultimately decided to target Trump.
The documents provide a closer look at a young man whose childhood appeared, on the surface, very different from the violent act he eventually carried out. They also underline how difficult it can be to identify a clear warning sign before an attack of this kind.