Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania, opened fire at former US President and Republican candidate Donald Trump’s campaign. Trump suffered a cut on his ear while a supporter lost his life before Crooks was neutralized by the Secret Service.
An AR-style rifle was recovered from him. FBI confirmed that he was the "subject involved". State voter records revealed that he was a registered Republican.
After being shot, Trump was seen dropping to the ground along with the rest of the spectators as the Secret Service came to his rescue. Later, Trump said he got shot in the ear, adding that he heard a "whizzing sound" and felt like a "bullet ripping through skin".
Here are five latest updates regarding the failed assassination attempt on Donald Trump as the weapon used by the slain accused was recovered by US probing agencies:
1. The weapon used by the gunman was bought by his father at least six months ago, US news agency the Associated Press quoted sources within the investigation team as saying. However, they still don't have clarity on when exactly the 20-year-old got hold of the weapon and why he decided to target Trump. "The officials were not authorized to publicly discuss details of the investigation and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity," the report said.
2. In a memo, Trump’s senior campaign advisers have asked their staff not to comment publicly on the incident and that dangerous rhetoric on social media won’t be tolerated. The memo also said staff in Washington and West Palm Beach, Florida, should stay away from the office as they assess those locations, AP reported.
3. Amidst the attempt to claim his life, Donald Trump has confirmed that he'll still be speaking at the Republican National Convention that kicks off Monday in Milwaukee.
“I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin,” he said in a social media post.
He also called for unity and courage. “... it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.” “We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness,” he said.
“In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win,” he adds.
4. According to BBC, the two men injured in the shooting remain in critical condition at the Allegheny General Hospital.
5. Donald Trump landed in New Jersey and will be spending the time at his private golf club. Reports confirmed his private jet landed at Newark Liberty International Airport shortly after midnight Sunday, local time.
