Thomas Matthew Crooks, the failed assassin, researched former President Donald Trump’s schedule and movements before shooting, according to FBI investigators. He also looked into President Biden and a member of the British royal family.
Investigators revealed Crooks’ search history to lawmakers on Wednesday. The 20-year-old had searched for Trump’s appearance dates and the Democratic National Convention. He also sought information on his “major depressive disorder,” sources told the New York Times.
Crooks had images of Trump and Biden saved on his cellphone, law enforcement sources previously informed The Post.
FBI officials reported that Crooks’ search history showed a wide interest in high-profile figures and celebrities, irrespective of their political leanings. This has made it harder for them to determine a motive, they said.
Apart from Trump and Biden, Crooks searched for FBI Director Christopher Wray, Attorney General Merrick Garland, and a British royal family member, the Times reported without naming the royal.
Officials also noted Crooks’ mental health struggles, citing a search he made on one of his two cellphones for “major depressive disorder,” sources confirmed to The Post.
Crooks, who was shot dead seconds after firing at the former president, left a chilling online message hinting at sinister plans for the Butler, Pa., rally over the weekend.
Investigators are still examining the shooter’s cellphones and computer for clues about the assassination attempt but have yet to identify a motive.
No evidence of strong partisan political views has been found in Crooks’ history, despite him being a registered Republican, officials told lawmakers.
There is also no evidence of co-conspirators or links to foreign actors, according to the report.
These details emerged as it was revealed that 20 minutes elapsed between Secret Service snipers first spotting Crooks on a roof with a rifle and him starting to fire at the former president.
![Trump hailed Hegseth as "tough, smart and a true believer in America First" in a social media post announcing the nomination [File: Roy Rochlin/Getty Images]](https://i0.wp.com/www.aljazeera.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GettyImages-1399603355-1-1731495570.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80&w=1200&resize=1200,0&ssl=1)
