FBI Reveals Shooter's Research Before Trump Rally Attack

In a recent investigation regarding the July 13th rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, the FBI confirmed that shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks had researched events held by both political parties. This investigation highlighted the shooter's excessive online searches related to Donald Trump and Joe Biden, indicating a meticulous plan behind his actions. The FBI examined over five years of Crooks's internet history and found a sustained effort indicating he viewed the Trump rally as a 'target of opportunity.' Starting late last year, Crooks tracked the campaign schedules of both candidates, ramping up his searches significantly in the month leading to the rally. With over 60 searches related to Trump and Biden recorded before the shooting, Crooks’ focus sharpened on the Butler event specifically when it was announced. Despite the detailed surveillance of his interests and actions, the FBI stated that no clear motive has been established, leaving many questions about Crooks's intentions surrounding this tragic event. This scenario underlines the alarming reality of individuals whose fixation on political events can escalate to violence, reminiscent of a moth drawn to an unyielding flame—flirting with danger in hopes of some misconceived purpose.