As the investigation into Saturday’s assassination attempt against former President and newly-minted GOP nominee Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally intensifies, the Federal Bureau of Investigation announced Monday that they have successfully gained access to the suspected shooter’s phone.
They have not revealed what information they’ve found on the device, but it is likely to contain a trove of information about the deceased suspect, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks.
The FBI has not detailed any of the information contained in the phone. The agency began its investigation into Crooks and the shooting shortly after the Saturday attack. Agents went to Crooks' home and the home of his parents on Sunday and Monday. They are investigating the incident as an assassination attempt and possible domestic terrorism.
The bureau also revealed that they’ve done myriad interviews and searched Crooks’ residence:
According to the FBI, the search of Crooks’ residence and vehicle are complete.
The FBI also said they have conducted over 100 interviews of law enforcement personnel, event attendees and other witnesses, and that work continues.
"The FBI has received hundreds of digital media tips which include photos and videos taken at the scene and we continue to review incoming tips," the FBI said. "We encourage anyone with information that may assist with the ongoing investigation to continue to submit it online at tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI."
Crooks’ shot came within millimeters of ending Trump’s life. He was described by high school acquaintances as a loner who was bullied.
'He Was Just an Outcast': Former Schoolmate Describes How Trump Shooter Was Bullied in High School
RedState’s Jeff Charles reported on what his classmates said about him:
And you know how kids are nowadays. So they're gonna see someone like that and they gonna target him because they think it's funny or whatever. So it's the best way I can describe it. And it's honestly kind of sad. Like, I don't want to say this is what provoked it, but you never know...
Yeah. I want to say he was a loner more because he was just... He was quiet, but, like, he was just bullied. Like, he was bullied so much. So much.
The failure of the Secret Service to protect the former and perhaps future president has come under heavy scrutiny, as the shooter was allowed to perch on a rooftop with a perfect sightline to Trump. People in the crowd pointed him out to law enforcement but to no avail.
Crooks’ phone could contain key information about his motive, his preparation, and whether he communicated with anyone else about his dark plans. RedState will keep you updated with more information as it becomes available.
Join the conversation as a VIP Member