Gunman at Trump Rally Identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania

New Delhi, July 14, 2024: The FBI has released a statement identifying the gunman involved in the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The shooter has been named as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, located about 70 kilometres from the site of the attack.

"This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online," the FBI statement added.

Former President Trump shared details of the attack on his Truth Social platform, revealing that he was shot in the upper part of his right ear, resulting in significant bleeding. According to a statement by the Secret Service, the shooter was killed at the scene, one rally attendee lost their life, and two other spectators were injured. The incident is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Following the attack, global leaders expressed their concern and condemnation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media platform X to voice his sentiments, stating, "Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured, and the American people."

The attack occurred as Trump was addressing the crowd, with the assailant firing multiple rounds from an elevated position before being neutralized by Secret Service agents. Trump recounted the harrowing experience, describing the sound of the bullets and the sensation of being struck.

One spectator was killed, and two others were critically injured during the incident. Trump, who was hit by a bullet in his right ear, expressed his gratitude to law enforcement and extended his condolences to the families of those affected. Despite the ordeal, Trump has been discharged from the hospital and confirmed his attendance at the upcoming Republican National Convention next week.

Witnesses at the rally described chaotic scenes, noting that the attacker was positioned on a one-story building near the venue. The Secret Service is treating the incident as an assassination attempt and has launched a thorough investigation. The suspect fired from a distance of 200 to 300 feet using an AR-style rifle from a single-story house rooftop, where he was killed in retaliatory fire by the troops.

President Joe Biden condemned the attack, stating that there is no place in America for political violence. He expressed concern for his Republican opponent and indicated his hope to speak with him later that night. Biden’s election campaign has paused all political statements and is working to take down its television ads, focusing instead on condemning the violence.

Politicians across the political spectrum have united in denouncing the violence. Former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Jimmy Carter expressed relief that Trump was not seriously hurt. Vice President Kamala Harris also expressed her relief, stating, "We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting. Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence."