The Complex Life of Donald Trump Shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks
Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally, was described by those who knew him as a bullied loner with a penchant for hunting outfits and video games. Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022, where he was often a target of relentless bullying, according to his classmates.
His father, Matthew Crooks, expressed his confusion and distress over his son’s actions, stating he needed to understand “what the hell is going on.” Crooks’ political affiliations painted a picture of a conflicted individual. Despite making a donation to the liberal ActBlue on President Joe Biden’s Inauguration Day in 2021, he registered as a Republican when he turned 18. This contradiction surprised many of his former classmates, who couldn’t reconcile his political donations with his Republican registration. One classmate mentioned, “He didn’t seem like really weird or anything. I would have pegged him as a Republican.”
Sarah D’Angelo, another Bethel Park High graduate, noted that Crooks never openly discussed his political views or expressed hatred towards Trump. Crooks’ classmates remember him for his distinctive hunting attire, which he often wore to class, further highlighting his isolation. Jason Kohler, a classmate, recalled, “He was known for wearing hunting outfits to class,” underscoring the unique yet lonely persona he projected.
On the night of the rally, Crooks was dressed in gray and armed with an AK-style rifle obtained from his father. He scaled the roof of a nearby manufacturing plant and opened fire. In the ensuing chaos, former volunteer fire chief Corey Comperatore, 50, lost his life, and Donald Trump narrowly escaped with a grazed ear. Two other attendees were critically wounded before Crooks was fatally shot by the Secret Service. The investigation into Crooks’ motives revealed explosive devices in his car parked near the rally site, although authorities have remained silent about his reasons for the attack.
Crooks’ political affiliations added to the complexity of his character. Despite his donation to ActBlue on Biden’s Inauguration Day, he registered as a Republican when he turned 18. His former classmates expressed surprise at his political leanings, given his reserved nature. One classmate commented, “He didn’t seem like really weird or anything. I would have pegged him as a Republican.”
Crooks’ life was marked by isolation and bullying. Sarah D’Angelo, a fellow Bethel Park High graduate, mentioned that Crooks had few friends and was often seen playing video games during homeroom. Despite not appearing in the 2022 yearbook, Crooks received a $500 National Math and Science Initiative Star Award, highlighting his academic capabilities.
Crooks’ father, Matthew, expressed his bewilderment at his son’s actions, saying he needed to understand “what the hell is going on.” The father’s confusion mirrored the general sense of shock among those who knew Thomas Crooks. His actions seemed to come out of nowhere, leaving many questions about his motives and mental state.
The community’s reaction to Crooks’ actions was mixed, with many expressing disbelief and sadness. Classmates and teachers were shocked that the quiet, bullied student they knew had committed such a violent act. The incident also brought to light issues of mental health and the impact of bullying on young individuals. Crooks’ life and actions have sparked conversations about how to better support isolated and bullied students to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain tight-lipped about the details. The presence of explosive devices in Crooks’ car has added a layer of complexity to the case, with many questioning how he was able to obtain such weapons and what his ultimate plan might have been. The tragic events of that night have left a lasting impact on the community and raised serious concerns about security at political events.
In the end, Thomas Matthew Crooks’ story is one of a young man struggling with isolation, conflicting political beliefs, and ultimately resorting to violence. His actions have left a mark on his community and sparked a broader conversation about the importance of mental health support and the dangers of political extremism.