Donald Trump Questions Shooter's Father's Choice Of Law Firm At North Carolina Rally

During a recent campaign rally in North Carolina, former President Donald Trump raised significant concerns regarding the legal representation of Thomas Matthew Crooks’ father, who is linked to a shooting incident involving Trump. This topic arose as Trump recounted two assassination attempts made against him, highlighting his ongoing frustrations with the legal and political landscape surrounding these events.

The rally took place at the Mosack Group manufacturing plant, where Trump spent considerable time discussing the implications of these violent attacks. Notably, on July 13, Crooks fired at Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, resulting in injuries to two attendees and the death of rally-goer Corey Comperatore. Crooks himself was shot dead by a Secret Service countersniper, and the FBI has classified this incident as an assassination attempt, intensifying the scrutiny on the events that unfolded that day.

In a shocking follow-up incident on September 15, a second attempt on Trump's life was foiled when a Secret Service agent discovered a rifle protruding from a fence at a Florida golf course where Trump was playing. The suspect, identified as Ryan Wesley Routh, fled the scene but was arrested later that day, raising further questions about security measures at political events.

After the first attack, the FBI conducted a search of Crooks' residence in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, discovering firearms and explosives among other items. The weapon used in the shooting, an AR-15-style rifle, was purchased by Thomas’ father, Matthew Crooks, in 2013. Reports indicate that Matthew Crooks has previously sold firearms to relatives, raising further complications regarding accountability in the aftermath of this incident.

In light of these developments, Thomas’ father has secured the services of a prominent law firm, a decision that has drawn skepticism from Trump during his rally in North Carolina. Trump questioned, “Why is it that the father of the shooter in the Butler incident has one of the best and most expensive lawyers in the entire state of Pennsylvania?” This rhetorical inquiry has stirred interest and concern among the public regarding the legal strategies being employed in this case.

As the FBI continues its investigation into the motives behind the younger Crooks' actions, they have yet to determine a clear motive. Reports indicate that Crooks was searching online for events involving both Trump and President Joe Biden, suggesting he may have viewed the Pennsylvania rally as a "target of opportunity." Trump, meanwhile, has expressed intentions to return to the venue of the Butler rally in October, indicating his commitment to continuing his political endeavors amid these serious threats.

Update 9/25/24, 2:36 p.m. ET: This story has been updated to include additional background and information.