FBI Documents Detail Pre-Assassination Attempt Actions of Thomas Matthew Crooks

Why it matters locally: The attempted assassination of a former president in Washington, D.C. has heightened concerns about security protocols for high-profile individuals and events within the nation's capital, directly impacting the operational focus of the Metropolitan Police Department and federal security agencies.

---

WASHINGTON – Thomas Matthew Crooks engaged in target practice for a 100-yard shot the day prior to his attempt to assassinate former President Donald Trump, according to newly declassified FBI documents. The federal agency released these records detailing Crooks' actions before the July 2024 incident on the campaign trail. The FBI documents indicate Crooks developed an increasing interest in firearms and long-range shooting. Authorities did not specify the location of this practice. Crooks' actions on July 13, 2024, involved firing an AR-15 style rifle from a rooftop, striking the former president in the right ear. Law enforcement officials on the scene returned fire, killing Crooks.