US Law enforcement officials have revealed that Thomas Matthew Crooks, the gunman who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump, flew a drone over the site of the shooting before the attack. Reports indicate that Crooks used the drone to scout the Butler Farm Show grounds in Pennsylvania, either hours or days prior to the July 13 rally.
During Trump’s campaign speech, a bullet grazed his right ear, and a spectator was killed, with two others seriously injured. Security Service agents shot and killed Crooks at the scene.
Security Service chief Kimberly Cheatle is set to testify before the US House of Representatives committee on July 22, following scrutiny over the security measures at the rally. Investigators believe the drone was used to select an optimal vantage point for the attack, which occurred from a rooftop about 130 meters from Trump.
In a Fox News interview, Trump expressed concern over the lack of warnings about the potential shooter. The drone, explosive devices, a tactical vest, and ammunition were found in Crooks’ vehicle and are under investigation.
