Thomas Matthew Crooks, involved in the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, exhibited suspicious behavior before the event. Records from Judicial Watch reveal Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, exchanged cryptic text messages prior to the incident.
Mysterious Text Messages
Crooks communicated with an unidentified contact in February 2023, discussing 3D printing parts. An exchange included the following messages:
Did you 3D print the parts?
Yes, except for the fan blades,Crooks responded.
Woah that looks cool.
Further messages revealed Crooks sending nonsensical and repetitive phrases to another contact between May 2023 and January 2024. The FBI redacted any responses from the recipient.
3D Printing and Drone Photos
Crooks had a history of 3D printing activities. He once attempted to 3D print a Glock 19 handgun, as his father, Matthew Crooks, reported to investigators. Concerned about safety, Matthew forbade his son from using the firearm.
A shipment from Hong Kong through DHL highlighted Crooks’ engagement in importing materials. Additionally, he captured 40 drone photos in February 2024, taking shots of PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium, two significant Pittsburgh sports venues.
Tragic Outcome at Butler Rally
The attempt on Trump’s life was thwarted by Secret Service, but not without consequence. Two civilians, Corey Comperatore and James Copenhaver, were caught in the violent event.
Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old fire chief, was killed while protecting his family. James Copenhaver, aged 76, suffered serious injuries impacting vital organs and passed away in 2026 due to these complications.
Call for Full Disclosure
Judicial Watch’s Tom Fitton urged the FBI to release the complete investigation records, referencing the recent death of James Copenhaver. The case remains an important reminder of the continued threats following the Butler rally incident.
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