Thomas Matthew Crooks, aged 20, identified as the shooter at the Trump rally

Thomas Matthew Crooks lost his life when security officials responded to his gunfire aimed at Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the suspect behind the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump, according to a statement released today.

Crooks was fatally shot by security officials after allegedly opening fire at the 78-year-old Republican presidential candidate during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, injuring his ear.

According to voter records in the state, Crooks was registered as a Republican.

The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, aged 20, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the person involved in the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump on July 13 in Butler,Pennsylvania,” the FBI statement was quoted by DikDisha.

Law enforcement officials had earlier indicated they had tentatively identified the suspected shooter but were not yet prepared to disclose his identity publicly. They also noted that the motive behind the shooting had not yet been determined. The FBI, leading the federal investigation, classified the incident as “an assassination attempt” against the former president.

During the rally, Trump was struck in the ear during the gunfire, which tragically resulted in the death of a bystander and left two others critically injured. Secret Service agents swiftly escorted Trump offstage, his face visibly marked by blood.

The gunshots rang out as Trump commenced his speech at what was to be his final rally prior to the Republican National Convention. The incident, broadcast live on news channels, unfolded before thousands of supporters in attendance.

In his first remarks since the attack, Trump recounted, “I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.” He described hearing shots and feeling the the bullet ripping through his skin, resulting in significant bleeding. Trump expressed gratitude to the Secret Service and law enforcement for their rapid response and condemned the violence, stating, “It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country.”

This shocking event occurred less than four months before the November 5 US presidential election, where Trump is slated to face Democratic President Joe Biden in a rematch.