Trump Shooter Flew Drone Over Rally Site in Advance, Say US Media
Law enforcement officials have revealed that the gunman who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump conducted surveillance with a drone over the rally site beforehand, according to US media reports. CBS, partnering with the BBC in the US, reported that authorities are unsure if Thomas Matthew Crooks flew the drone hours or days before the July 13 rally in Pennsylvania.
Trump, the official Republican presidential nominee, attributed his survival to “luck or divine intervention” after a bullet grazed his right ear during his speech. The attack resulted in one spectator’s death and left two others seriously injured.
Crooks, 20, was killed on-site by Secret Service agents, who now face intense scrutiny over the security measures in place to protect Trump at the outdoor rally in Butler. Secret Service chief Kimberly Cheatle is scheduled to testify before a US House of Representatives committee on July 22.
Initially reported by the Wall Street Journal, investigators told CBS they are still trying to determine the exact timing of Crooks’ drone flight. Some outlets, citing security officials, suggest the drone was flown over the area on the day of the event. The drone is believed to have helped the shooter identify the best vantage point for targeting Trump. Crooks fired multiple shots from a rooftop just 130 meters (430 feet) from the podium.
In a forthcoming Fox News interview, Trump expressed frustration about not being warned of a potential shooter before taking the stage. “How did somebody get on that roof? And why wasn’t he reported when people saw him up there?” he questioned.
Investigators found the drone in Crooks’ vehicle, along with two explosive devices, a tactical vest, and four magazines of the same ammunition used in the attack.
Trump later addressed thousands at a Michigan rally, declaring he “took a bullet for democracy.” The shooting has raised critical questions about Secret Service protocols.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas defended the role of women in law enforcement amid criticism. Mayorkas praised the “highly skilled and trained” women serving at all levels, including those who protected Trump during the Butler incident. After the shooting, several female agents shielded Trump and escorted him to safety.
Social media criticism, including comments from influential conservative activists, questioned the suitability of women for Secret Service roles. Matt Walsh, a prominent activist, argued on X that no women should serve in the Secret Service. Mayorkas countered these views, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in law enforcement. He stated that recruiting, retaining, and elevating women would strengthen the Department of Homeland Security and enhance national security.
