Some moments shake a nation so deeply that people still search for answers long after the danger has passed. That’s what happened after the 2024 assassination attempt on President Donald Trump. Even now, new details from the FBI investigation are drawing intense attention and raising fresh questions.
The attempt happened during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Trump was struck in the ear by a bullet. The gunman, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed at the scene by a Secret Service sniper. The shocking footage spread across the world and became a turning point in the election that followed.

The turning point in the investigation came when the FBI revealed what they found in Crooks’ vehicle. Inside were more ammunition, multiple magazines, and an undetonated explosive device. Agents examined half a million digital files, reviewed 35 online accounts, and interviewed more than 1,000 people.
Rumors soon spread online suggesting foreign help or even a second shooter. But the FBI firmly rejected these claims. They stated that every round was accounted for and that Crooks acted completely alone, with no outside direction or assistance.
Investigators also found no manifesto or explanation for the attack. His online history showed troubling posts from years earlier, but nothing pointing to a clear motive. Even claims that he belonged to niche online groups were not supported by the evidence.

In the end, the FBI said no information was withheld and no wider plot existed. They reminded the public that the tragedy touched more than one family. One rallygoer, Corey Comperatore, lost his life protecting those he loved—a quiet act of courage in a moment of chaos.