Former President Donald Trump Survives Shooting at Pennsylvania Rally
Former US President Donald Trump was shot at during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Cooks from Bethel Park, fired from a rooftop, grazing Trump’s ear. Secret Service agents neutralized Cooks, who was later identified as a 20-year-old from Bethel Park. One spectator was killed, and another critically injured. Trump was escorted off the stage and is recovering.
Details of the Incident
Thomas Matthew Cooks fired shots from a manufacturing plant rooftop over 130 yards away from the stage at Butler Farm Show grounds. The US Secret Service snipers shot him, and an AR-style rifle was later recovered. Bethel Park is a village 40 miles south of where Trump’s rally was held in Butler.
Reactions and Statements
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro stated that Trump has left the Butler area and expressed gratitude to law enforcement officers. He also mourned the loss of life and prayed for the injured victims. US President Joe Biden condemned the attack, calling it ‘sick’ and emphasized the need for unity. US Vice President Kamala Harris also expressed relief that Trump was not seriously injured and thanked the Secret Service for their swift response.
Investigation
The US Secret Service is leading the investigation into the shooting, with assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police. The incident is currently under investigation, and the Secret Service has formally notified the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
