Unraveling the Events
New footage from body-worn police cameras has offered a clearer account of the events surrounding the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump in July. The footage, acquired from the local Pennsylvania police department, shows various scenes of misunderstanding, bewilderment, and the chaotic response that accompanied the near-miss on the former president’s life. The video clips were made public on Thursday.
Warnings Went Unheeded
A standout moment in one body camera video is a local police officer stating that he had cautioned the US Secret Service in advance about the importance of securing the building that the gunman used. This officer appears perturbed as he divulges to his colleagues that he had suggested the Secret Service secure the said building days before the rally.
Description of the Gunman
In another striking piece of footage, a Butler County police officer describes the appearance of the would-be assassin after visually detecting him on a rooftop: “He’s got glasses, long hair,” adding that the suspect carried a book bag and an AR-style rifle.
The Triggering Event
Trump’s outdoor rally, held on 13 July, was interrupted when 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks fired eight shots towards the stage where Trump was delivering his speech. The former president was grazed by a bullet before he took cover and Secret Service agents escorted him off the stage. Crooks was subsequently shot and killed by the Secret Service’s counter-sniper team. The shooting also resulted in one death and serious injuries to another two people.
Additional Disturbing Details
Further disturbing details were unpacked in the tape, including instances of the Butler county officer expressing grievance over the failure to secure the rooftop, confusion over who was supposed to be manning the roof, and questioning regarding communication frequencies amongst the different law enforcement units.
Investigation Underway
Due to the seriousness of the incident, the FBI and a bipartisan House panel of 13 members are also investigating the incident. The U.S. Secret Service announced on Thursday they are also reviewing the incident, appreciating local law enforcement partners for their brave actions, but acknowledging that the event was, without doubt, a failure on their part.