US FBI: "Suspect acted alone... No mental health issues"

The FBI, investigating the shooting incident involving former U.S. President Donald Trump, announced on the 14th (local time) that the incident was a lone act by suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks, and there are no additional threats. They also stated that no evidence was found indicating the suspect has mental health issues.

According to the New York Times (NYT) on the 14th (local time), the FBI said in a press briefing that the suspect had never been on the FBI's radar before.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is being protected by bodyguards after being shot at during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on the 13th (local time).
[Image source=AFP Yonhap News]

They also revealed that the firearm used by the suspect was an AR-15 style rifle, legally purchased, and was found next to the suspect's body at the crime scene. The rifle belonged to the suspect's father, but it is unclear whether the father gave the weapon to his son or if the son took it without permission.

Investigators also found a suspicious item resembling a rudimentary explosive device while searching the suspect's vehicle. It has been sent to the FBI laboratory in Quantico, Virginia, for further analysis.

Earlier, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) and others reported, citing local law enforcement officials, that bomb-making materials were found in Crooks' vehicle and home.

However, authorities have not yet determined the motive behind the suspect's actions. The FBI stated that no threatening posts were found on the suspect's social media.

Crooks is known to be registered as a Republican in the Pennsylvania voter registry. However, on January 20, 2021, the day President Biden was inaugurated, he also donated $15 to a progressive voter group.

The Associated Press reported the previous day that attendees at Trump's Pennsylvania rally witnessed a man climbing onto the rooftop of a nearby building and reported it to local police. An officer went up to the rooftop and encountered Crooks, who aimed a rifle at the officer. When the officer descended the ladder, Crooks quickly fired at former President Trump, and a Secret Service (SS) sniper shot him dead.

The Bethel Park nursing home in Pennsylvania, where Crooks was reportedly employed, confirmed that he worked there as a nutrition aide. The center stated, "Crooks worked without any issues, and his record was clean."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.