Uncovering the Background of Thomas Crooks in the Trump Assassination Attempt
Thomas Matthew Crooks, known as the shooter in the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, exhibited concerning behaviors and sent cryptic messages long before the event. Records from Judicial Watch reveal a pattern of communication suggesting preparation and planning.
Messages Suggesting Preparation
On February 9, 2023, Crooks received a text from an ‘unknown contact’ asking if he had ‘3D printed the parts.’ Crooks confirmed with, ‘Yes, except for the fan blades,’ indicating involvement with 3D printing components. This continues with the contact expressing interest in seeing these ‘parts,’ though details were withheld by authorities.
Odd Communications and Red Flags
Crooks’ messages from May 2023 to January 2024 to a redacted second party included nonsensical terms like ‘red,’ ‘Hdudhdbdbbd,’ and ‘Yolo.’ These exchanges, with redacted responses, contribute to a concerning profile noted by former FBI agents.
Additional Findings
Judicial Watch’s records also mention a DHL package from Hong Kong addressed to Crooks. His use of a ‘Bob Dole’ alias before an anonymous donor paid for his cremation also raises questions.
His endeavors extended to photography, where he captured drone images of venues like PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium between February 6 and February 27, 2024. Crooks’ fondness for 3D printing was publicized by the New York Post, with documents showing he tried creating a Glock 19 handgun. His father, Matthew Crooks, revealed Thomas previously used carbon fiber plastic and household appliances like a dryer and a toaster oven for this purpose. However, concern over the firearm’s stability led his father to ban its use.
Impact of the Assassination Attempt
Though Crooks did not succeed in killing Trump, the incident resulted in fatalities. Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old fire chief, died while protecting his family. James Copenhaver, a 76-year-old veteran, suffered injuries and later died from complications on September 23, 2026.
Call for Transparency
Tom Fitton, Judicial Watch president, emphasized the importance of releasing the full investigative records, especially following Copenhaver’s death. He criticized the FBI’s current practice of releasing heavily redacted documents.