In November, Thomas Matthew Crooks was set to reach a political milestone: the first presidential election he could vote in.
At 20, Crooks lived in a crucial swing state and showed early signs of political interest, making a small donation as a teenager and registering to vote a week after turning 18.
However, instead of voting this year, law enforcement reports that Crooks traveled an hour from home, climbed a building, and opened fire on former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally, injuring Trump and killing one spectator, while critically wounding two others.
The attack shook American politics, with leaders condemning the violence and warning of the dangers of deep political polarization. Investigators have found no evidence on social media or other writings to identify Crooks’ motive.
Former classmates and neighbors described Crooks as quiet, a good student, and something of a misfit in high school. Public records suggest he had divergent political leanings, registering as a Republican but donating to a Democratic group.
Crooks lived in Bethel Park, a Pittsburgh suburb, and graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022. Classmates recalled him being bullied and a loner, but also smart and shy.
Despite his quiet demeanor, Crooks attempted to assassinate Trump from a rooftop outside the rally’s security perimeter and was killed by Secret Service agents.
Law enforcement continues to investigate Crooks’ motives. They confirmed he used a legally purchased AR-style weapon traced to his father. Explosive materials were found in his home and car.
Crooks worked as a dietary aide at a local nursing home, where colleagues described him as caring and helpful. Despite his actions, those who knew him struggle to reconcile the person they knew with the violent act he committed.
Bethel Park, a politically mixed and predominantly white suburb, is trying to come to terms with the event. Local officials fear the incident will exacerbate political polarization and lead to future violence.
