Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Saturday during a campaign Pennsylvania Rally. The assailant, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire at the former US President but was ultimately shot dead by Secret Service agents.

Thomas Matthew Crooks spent his last day meticulously preparing for the attack. According to CNN, Crooks visited a shooting range on Friday to practice his marksmanship. On Saturday morning, he made several stops, including a visit to Home Depot to purchase a five-foot ladder and a gun store where he bought 50 rounds of ammunition.

Authorities believe Crooks used the ladder to access a vantage point from which he fired at the 78-year-old Republican nominee. Trump sustained a minor injury, with the bullet grazing the upper part of his right ear, leaving him with a bloodied face.

Pennsylvania Rally
Image Source: National Geographic Kids

Investigation into Crooks' Activities

Investigators are currently working to piece together Crooks' activities leading up to the failed assassination attempt. Despite breaking into his phone and examining his computer, law enforcement officials have not found any evidence suggesting a political or ideological motive behind the shooting.

Early reports about Crooks describe him as a talented but reserved individual. He was a math whiz who graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022. His high school counselor remembered him as "respectful" and noted that he had never shown any political inclinations.

The Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the incident to uncover any potential motives and to ensure the safety of political figures during the election season.

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