Facebook has acknowledged that it mistakenly censored the iconic image of former President Donald Trump taken shortly after the July 13 assassination attempt in Pennsylvania. The image that went viral&nbsp;showing&nbsp;Trump defiantly raising his fist and shouting 'fight' even as blood streams down his face, was flagged as misinformation on Meta's Facebook.

The controversy surrounding Facebook is further compounded by the fact that Meta's chatbot, Meta AI, incorrectly referred to the assassination attempt as "fictional" in some responses.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:150,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2139}">Facebook and censorship</h2>

A Facebook user who goes by the username 'End Wokeness' reported that he even faced threats of deplatforming for sharing the very real image.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:244,&quot;w&quot;:616,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2233}" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/president-donaldduck-elon-musk-claims-google-biased-against-trump-interfering-in-us-elections-745191">President Donald...Duck?: Elon Musk claims Google biased against Trump, interfering in US Elections</a>

Taking to social media platform X, the user 'End Wokeness' said, "Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg called the Trump fist image 'one of the most badass things I've ever seen' 10 days ago. Facebook is now censoring that image."

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Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg called the Trump fist image "one of the most badass things I've ever seen" 10 days ago. 
 
Facebook is now censoring that image. <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:266,&quot;y&quot;:483,&quot;w&quot;:166,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:299,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2472}" href="https://t.co/7ErQ7kZWaR">pic.twitter.com/7ErQ7kZWaR</a>
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:424,&quot;y&quot;:512,&quot;w&quot;:77,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:457,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2501}" href="https://twitter.com/EndWokeness/status/1817944478352589155?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The post had over 884k views within 15 hours.

Also on X, Dani Lever, a spokesperson for Meta, Facebook's parent company, admitted the "mistake" on Monday.&nbsp;

"Yes, this was an error," Lever stated on X, responding to conservative influencer Charlie Kirk.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:691,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2680}" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/trump-calls-olympics-opening-ceremony-a-disgrace-last-supper-drag-show-a-terrible-thing-heres-why-745459">Trump calls Olympics opening ceremony a 'disgrace', 'Last Supper' drag show a 'terrible thing'. Here's why</a>

"This fact check was initially applied to a doctored photo showing the secret service agents smiling, and in some cases our systems incorrectly applied that fact check to the real photo," she explained.

"This has been fixed and we apologise for the mistake," she further said.

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Yes, this was an error. This fact check was initially applied to a doctored photo showing the secret service agents smiling, and in some cases our systems incorrectly applied that fact check to the real photo. This has been fixed and we apologize for the mistake.
— Dani Lever (@Dani_Lever) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:402,&quot;y&quot;:976,&quot;w&quot;:77,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:435,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2965}" href="https://twitter.com/Dani_Lever/status/1817954271406538800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The clarification has been met with scepticism from some X users, with remarks suggesting that such errors disproportionately affect conservative viewpoints.&nbsp;

One user noted, "Funny that the 'errors' only ever go in one direction," while others expressed disbelief and frustration over Meta's handling of the situation.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1144,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3133}">Meta Chatbot AI calls Trump assassination "fictional"</h2>

Facebook has also come under fire for incorrectly referring to the assassination attempt as "fictional" in some responses.&nbsp;

Users reported on social media that when asked about Donald Trump's July 13 assassination attempt, the Meta AI chatbot called it a "fictional event". In contrast, it readily answered questions about Trump's political rival Kamala Harris' 2024 presidential campaign, calling that a "real and ongoing event".

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Meta AI says the Trump assassination attempt is a fictional event. Huh? 
But I was a "conspiracy theorist" for saying that the covid vaccines weren't researched enough. 
OK 🤡 <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:292,&quot;y&quot;:1432,&quot;w&quot;:160,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:325,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3421}" href="https://t.co/Z1vdOKvGj4">pic.twitter.com/Z1vdOKvGj4</a>
— Aida Reva (@RevaAida) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:394,&quot;y&quot;:1460,&quot;w&quot;:77,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:427,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3449}" href="https://twitter.com/RevaAida/status/1817923506715152612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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A Meta spokesperson, as per the New York Post, has acknowledged the problem and stated that efforts are underway to correct inaccuracies in the chatbot's responses.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1527,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3516}">Google and election interference</h2>

Google has also faced criticism, particularly regarding its search engine's autocomplete function that, when searched for "President Donald" skipped "Trump" in results. Instead, it came up with "President Donald Duck" and "President Donald Reagan".

<img alt="President Donald Duck" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e659693c-a4bc-4822-a019-9d0749050dd8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20-%202024-07-30T115019.588.png" />

(With inputs from agencies)

Facebook has acknowledged that it mistakenly censored the iconic image of former President Donald Trump taken shortly after the July 13 assassination attempt in Pennsylvania.

Facebook has acknowledged that it mistakenly censored the iconic image of former President Donald Trump taken shortly after the July 13 assassination attempt in Pennsylvania. The image that went viral showing Trump defiantly raising his fist and shouting 'fight' even as blood streams down his face, was flagged as misinformation on Meta's Facebook. The controversy surrounding Facebook is further compounded by the fact that Meta's chatbot, Meta AI, incorrectly referred to the assassination attempt as "fictional" in some responses. Facebook and censorship A Facebook user who goes by the username 'End Wokeness' reported that he even faced threats of deplatforming for sharing the very real image. Also read | President Donald...Duck?: Elon Musk claims Google biased against Trump, interfering in US Elections Taking to social media platform X, the user 'End Wokeness' said, "Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg called the Trump fist image 'one of the most badass things I've ever seen' 10 days ago. Facebook is now censoring that image." Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg called the Trump fist image "one of the most badass things I've ever seen" 10 days ago. Facebook is now censoring that image. pic.twitter.com/7ErQ7kZWaR — End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) July 29, 2024 × The post had over 884k views within 15 hours. Also on X, Dani Lever, a spokesperson for Meta, Facebook's parent company, admitted the "mistake" on Monday. "Yes, this was an error," Lever stated on X, responding to conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. Also read | Trump calls Olympics opening ceremony a 'disgrace', 'Last Supper' drag show a 'terrible thing'. Here's why "This fact check was initially applied to a doctored photo showing the secret service agents smiling, and in some cases our systems incorrectly applied that fact check to the real photo," she explained. "This has been fixed and we apologise for the mistake," she further said. Yes, this was an error. This fact check was initially applied to a doctored photo showing the secret service agents smiling, and in some cases our systems incorrectly applied that fact check to the real photo. This has been fixed and we apologize for the mistake. — Dani Lever (@Dani_Lever) July 29, 2024 × The clarification has been met with scepticism from some X users, with remarks suggesting that such errors disproportionately affect conservative viewpoints. One user noted, "Funny that the 'errors' only ever go in one direction," while others expressed disbelief and frustration over Meta's handling of the situation. Meta Chatbot AI calls Trump assassination "fictional" Facebook has also come under fire for incorrectly referring to the assassination attempt as "fictional" in some responses. Users reported on social media that when asked about Donald Trump's July 13 assassination attempt, the Meta AI chatbot called it a "fictional event". In contrast, it readily answered questions about Trump's political rival Kamala Harris' 2024 presidential campaign, calling that a "real and ongoing event". Meta AI says the Trump assassination attempt is a fictional event. Huh? But I was a "conspiracy theorist" for saying that the covid vaccines weren't researched enough. OK 🤡 pic.twitter.com/Z1vdOKvGj4 — Aida Reva (@RevaAida) July 29, 2024 × A Meta spokesperson, as per the New York Post, has acknowledged the problem and stated that efforts are underway to correct inaccuracies in the chatbot's responses. Google and election interference Google has also faced criticism, particularly regarding its search engine's autocomplete function that, when searched for "President Donald" skipped "Trump" in results. Instead, it came up with "President Donald Duck" and "President Donald Reagan". (With inputs from agencies)

Facebook targeting Trump? Meta calls July 13 assassination attempt 'fictional event' and 'misinformation'

Former US president Donald Trump has agreed to the FBI's request to sit down for a 'victim interview' after he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt earlier this month during a political rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania.&nbsp;

FBI special agent Kevin Rojek said&nbsp;the interview with the former president would be "a standard victim interview" that the agency would do for any other victim of crime under any other circumstances.

"We want to get his perspective on what he observed. The interview with the former president will follow the same protocol as any other victim interview we conduct," said Rojek.&nbsp;

Trump's would-be assassination was 20-year-old Thomas Crooks who fired eight bullets from an AR-15 rifle while being only 130 metres away from the Republican leader.&nbsp;

The FBI have so far interviewed dozens of people associated with Crooks, including family members, schoolmates and colleagues.&nbsp;

"We have learned the subject was highly intelligent, attended college and maintained steady employment," Rojek said. "His primary social circle appears to be limited to his immediate family as we believe he had few friends and acquaintances."

To this date,&nbsp;the premier security agency of the US has&nbsp; not been able to decipher the motive behind the shooting as&nbsp;Crooks had not posted anything incendiary for either side of the political spectrum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-shooting-trumps-shooter-quiet-lonely-bullied-740959" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Trump shooting: Trump's shooter 'quiet', 'lonely', 'bullied'</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-shooting-trumps-shooter-quiet-lonely-bullied-740959/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Agencies knew about Crooks' movement&nbsp;</h2>

On Sunday (Jul 28), media reports claimed that security agencies, particularly the Secret Service, knew about Crooks' movements at least 100 minutes before he pulled the trigger.&nbsp;

In the immediate aftermath of the assassination bid, multiple videos had emerged showcasing the rallygoers alerting the security agencies about the presence of an odd-looking man on the roof of the building.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooter-thomas-crooks-was-spotted-by-cops-nearly-100-minutes-before-shooting-report-745175">Also read |&nbsp;Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was spotted by cops nearly 100 minutes before shooting: Report</a>

<h2>Crooks searched for Trump and Biden</h2>

According to FBI,&nbsp;Crooks had searched for Trump as well as President Joe Biden in the lead-up to the events of July 13.&nbsp;

FBI added that the 20-year-old searched for dates of Trump appearances and the Democratic National Convention (DNC) where Democrats were earlier expected to certify Biden's nomination for the re-election bid.

Crooks had also placed explosives&nbsp;in his car and reports indicate that he planned to blow it up after surviving the immediate aftermath of the assassination attempt.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US president Donald Trump has agreed to the FBI's request to sit down for a 'victim interview' after he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt earlier this month during a political rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania.

Former US president Donald Trump has agreed to the FBI's request to sit down for a 'victim interview' after he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt earlier this month during a political rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania. FBI special agent Kevin Rojek said the interview with the former president would be "a standard victim interview" that the agency would do for any other victim of crime under any other circumstances. "We want to get his perspective on what he observed. The interview with the former president will follow the same protocol as any other victim interview we conduct," said Rojek. Trump's would-be assassination was 20-year-old Thomas Crooks who fired eight bullets from an AR-15 rifle while being only 130 metres away from the Republican leader. The FBI have so far interviewed dozens of people associated with Crooks, including family members, schoolmates and colleagues. "We have learned the subject was highly intelligent, attended college and maintained steady employment," Rojek said. "His primary social circle appears to be limited to his immediate family as we believe he had few friends and acquaintances." To this date, the premier security agency of the US has not been able to decipher the motive behind the shooting as Crooks had not posted anything incendiary for either side of the political spectrum. Watch | Trump shooting: Trump's shooter 'quiet', 'lonely', 'bullied' Agencies knew about Crooks' movement On Sunday (Jul 28), media reports claimed that security agencies, particularly the Secret Service, knew about Crooks' movements at least 100 minutes before he pulled the trigger. In the immediate aftermath of the assassination bid, multiple videos had emerged showcasing the rallygoers alerting the security agencies about the presence of an odd-looking man on the roof of the building. Also read | Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was spotted by cops nearly 100 minutes before shooting: Report Crooks searched for Trump and Biden According to FBI, Crooks had searched for Trump as well as President Joe Biden in the lead-up to the events of July 13. FBI added that the 20-year-old searched for dates of Trump appearances and the Democratic National Convention (DNC) where Democrats were earlier expected to certify Biden's nomination for the re-election bid. Crooks had also placed explosives in his car and reports indicate that he planned to blow it up after surviving the immediate aftermath of the assassination attempt. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump agrees to sit with FBI for ‘victim interview’ about assassination attempt

Former US president Donald Trump was certainly hit by an assassin's bullet or a piece of one, the Federal Bureau of Investigation said on Friday (July 26).

"What struck former President Donald Trump in the ear was a bullet, whether whole or fragmented into smaller pieces, fired from the deceased subject's rifle," the FBI said in a statement.

It may be recalled here, Trump's right ear was covered in blood on July 13 after he was injured during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blasts-fbi-director-wray-demands-resignation-over-biden-health-cover-up-744206" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Trump goes after FBI Director Wray, demands his resignation over Biden health cover-up</a>

The FBI considered the assault -- in which a gunman fired eight bullets from outside the event's security perimeter -- an ‘assassination attempt’.

However, FBI chief Christopher Wray earlier told US lawmakers that there was some doubt as to "whether or not it's a bullet or shrapnel that, you know, that hit his ear."&nbsp;

"With respect to former president Trump, there’s some question about whether it was a bullet or shrapnel that hit his ear," Wray told Representative Jim Jordan during the testimony.&nbsp;

“As I sit here right now, I don’t know whether that bullet… in addition to causing the grazing, could have landed somewhere else," he added.

Following the&nbsp;statement from the FBI—Trump has long alleged is part of a "deep state" conspiring against him—the Republican posted on his Truth Social platform, "I assume that's the best apology that we'll get from Director Wray, but it is fully accepted!"

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blasts-fbi-director-for-questioning-if-he-was-struck-by-bullet-during-assassination-bid-744435">Trump blasts FBI director for questioning if he was struck by bullet during assassination bid</a>

Taking a further dig&nbsp;at Wray Trump wrote, “FBI Director Christopher Wray told Congress yesterday that he wasn’t sure if I was hit by shrapnel, glass, or a bullet (the FBI never even checked!), but he was sure that Crooked Joe Biden was physically and cognitively ‘uneventful’ – Wrong!”.

However, Trump also posted a letter from his former White House doctor saying the wound was almost certainly due to a bullet.

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Notably, two rally attendees were seriously wounded in the attack, and a 50-year-old Pennsylvania firefighter was shot dead. The gunman was killed by a US Secret Service sniper immediately after the incident.

Since the shooting, Trump has made the attack a significant part of his campaign pitches, telling a crowd in Michigan that he "took a bullet for democracy."

Trump to hold another rally at site of assassination attempt

Donald Trump said on Friday he will return to the Pennsylvania town where he survived an assassination attempt.

"I will be going back to Butler, Pennsylvania, for a big and beautiful rally," former President Trump wrote on his Truth Social site, without providing details on when or where the rally would take place.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US president Donald Trump was certainly hit by an assassin's bullet or a piece of one, the Federal Bureau of Investigation said on Friday (July 26). "What struck former President Donald Trump in the ear was a bullet, whether whole or fragmented into smaller pieces, fired from the deceased subject's rifle," the FBI said in a statement.

Former US president Donald Trump was certainly hit by an assassin's bullet or a piece of one, the Federal Bureau of Investigation said on Friday (July 26). "What struck former President Donald Trump in the ear was a bullet, whether whole or fragmented into smaller pieces, fired from the deceased subject's rifle," the FBI said in a statement. It may be recalled here, Trump's right ear was covered in blood on July 13 after he was injured during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Also read | Trump goes after FBI Director Wray, demands his resignation over Biden health cover-up The FBI considered the assault -- in which a gunman fired eight bullets from outside the event's security perimeter -- an ‘assassination attempt’. However, FBI chief Christopher Wray earlier told US lawmakers that there was some doubt as to "whether or not it's a bullet or shrapnel that, you know, that hit his ear." "With respect to former president Trump, there’s some question about whether it was a bullet or shrapnel that hit his ear," Wray told Representative Jim Jordan during the testimony. “As I sit here right now, I don’t know whether that bullet… in addition to causing the grazing, could have landed somewhere else," he added. Following the statement from the FBI—Trump has long alleged is part of a "deep state" conspiring against him—the Republican posted on his Truth Social platform, "I assume that's the best apology that we'll get from Director Wray, but it is fully accepted!" Also read: Trump blasts FBI director for questioning if he was struck by bullet during assassination bid Taking a further dig at Wray Trump wrote, “FBI Director Christopher Wray told Congress yesterday that he wasn’t sure if I was hit by shrapnel, glass, or a bullet (the FBI never even checked!), but he was sure that Crooked Joe Biden was physically and cognitively ‘uneventful’ – Wrong!”. However, Trump also posted a letter from his former White House doctor saying the wound was almost certainly due to a bullet. × Notably, two rally attendees were seriously wounded in the attack, and a 50-year-old Pennsylvania firefighter was shot dead. The gunman was killed by a US Secret Service sniper immediately after the incident. Since the shooting, Trump has made the attack a significant part of his campaign pitches, telling a crowd in Michigan that he "took a bullet for democracy." Trump to hold another rally at site of assassination attempt Donald Trump said on Friday he will return to the Pennsylvania town where he survived an assassination attempt. "I will be going back to Butler, Pennsylvania, for a big and beautiful rally," former President Trump wrote on his Truth Social site, without providing details on when or where the rally would take place. (With inputs from agencies)

FBI confirms Trump was struck by bullet in assassination attempt

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director, Christopher Wray has said there were doubts if former United States president Donald Trump was hit by a bullet during the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, earlier this month.&nbsp;

Trump claims he was hit by a bullet that grazed the upper portion of his right ear after he moved his head just in time to avoid getting shot in the head. However, the FBI director has his suspicions.&nbsp;

"With respect to former President Trump, there’s some question about whether it was a bullet or shrapnel that hit his ear," Wray said while testifying in front of the House Oversight Committee.&nbsp;

“As I sit here right now, I don’t know whether that bullet… in addition to causing the grazing, could have landed somewhere else," he added.&nbsp;

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MAGA is BIG MAD at FBI Director Chris Wray for pointing out what many have been questioning: 
 
“With respect to former president Trump, there’s some question about whether or not it’s a bullet or shrapnel that hit his ear.” 
 
🍿<a href="https://t.co/igUTMH04St">pic.twitter.com/igUTMH04St</a>
— Art Candee 🍿🥤 (@ArtCandee) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArtCandee/status/1816487414074061161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Notably, 20-year-old gunman, Thomas Crooks, had fired a volley of eight rounds towards the former US president using an AR-15 rifle while he was addressing the rally in an open field.&nbsp;

Wray said his team had accounted for all the shots in the cartridges, including the ones that killed a rallygoer and wounded two others. Wray highlighted that Crooks' gun had a collapsible stock that made it easy to hide the gun.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secret-service-director-grilled-by-lawmakers-on-trump-assassination-attempt-743179" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;US Secret Service director grilled by lawmakers on Trump assassination attempt</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>FBI surprised&nbsp;</h2>

In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, the FBI had thrown the US Secret Service under the bus by claiming it was 'surprising' that the shooter was able to fire the rifle.&nbsp;

“It is surprising but, to get all the details of that will come out later in the investigation," said Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office when asked if he was surprised at the number of shots.&nbsp;

"The Secret Service really needs to answer that question,” Rojek stated, adding that the FBI was only there to support the Secret Service who were in charge of securing the scene.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blasts-fbi-director-wray-demands-resignation-over-biden-health-cover-up-744206">Also read |&nbsp;Trump blasts FBI Director Wray, demands his resignation over Biden health cover-up</a>

The premier security agency last week confirmed that Crooks had searched for Trump as well as his successor Joe Biden in the lead-up to the events of July 13.&nbsp;

FBI added that Crooks searched for dates of Trump appearances and the Democratic National Convention (DNC) where Democrats were previously expected to certify Biden's nomination for the president before he dropped out of the race.

(With inputs from agencies)

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director, Christopher Wray has said there were doubts if former United States president Donald Trump was hit by a bullet during the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, earlier this month.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director, Christopher Wray has said there were doubts if former United States president Donald Trump was hit by a bullet during the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, earlier this month. Trump claims he was hit by a bullet that grazed the upper portion of his right ear after he moved his head just in time to avoid getting shot in the head. However, the FBI director has his suspicions. "With respect to former President Trump, there’s some question about whether it was a bullet or shrapnel that hit his ear," Wray said while testifying in front of the House Oversight Committee. “As I sit here right now, I don’t know whether that bullet… in addition to causing the grazing, could have landed somewhere else," he added. MAGA is BIG MAD at FBI Director Chris Wray for pointing out what many have been questioning: “With respect to former president Trump, there’s some question about whether or not it’s a bullet or shrapnel that hit his ear.” 🍿pic.twitter.com/igUTMH04St — Art Candee 🍿🥤 (@ArtCandee) July 25, 2024 × Notably, 20-year-old gunman, Thomas Crooks, had fired a volley of eight rounds towards the former US president using an AR-15 rifle while he was addressing the rally in an open field. Wray said his team had accounted for all the shots in the cartridges, including the ones that killed a rallygoer and wounded two others. Wray highlighted that Crooks' gun had a collapsible stock that made it easy to hide the gun. Watch | US Secret Service director grilled by lawmakers on Trump assassination attempt FBI surprised In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, the FBI had thrown the US Secret Service under the bus by claiming it was 'surprising' that the shooter was able to fire the rifle. “It is surprising but, to get all the details of that will come out later in the investigation," said Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office when asked if he was surprised at the number of shots. "The Secret Service really needs to answer that question,” Rojek stated, adding that the FBI was only there to support the Secret Service who were in charge of securing the scene. Also read | Trump blasts FBI Director Wray, demands his resignation over Biden health cover-up The premier security agency last week confirmed that Crooks had searched for Trump as well as his successor Joe Biden in the lead-up to the events of July 13. FBI added that Crooks searched for dates of Trump appearances and the Democratic National Convention (DNC) where Democrats were previously expected to certify Biden's nomination for the president before he dropped out of the race. (With inputs from agencies)

FBI director unsure if bullet hit Trump, says it could've been shrapnel

Former President Donald Trump plans to stop holding outdoor rallies, such as the one in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he was shot during an assassination attempt this month, according to two sources familiar with his campaign&nbsp;operations.

The sources informed that the current plans are to hold indoor rallies, but it is likely that Trump will participate in smaller outdoor events or larger rallies in facilities where entry is fully controlled and there are no issues with high ground nearby.

However, spokesperson for the Trump campaign and the Secret Service did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-remotely-defensible-donald-trump-asks-new-york-appeals-court-to-throw-out-454mn-civil-suit-verdict-743270">Donald Trump asks New York appeals court to throw out $454mn civil fraud verdict</a>

Notably, news of the venue change comes on the same day Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle announced her resignation.&nbsp;

While in a phone interview with Newsmax on Tuesday (July 23) night, Trump commented on her resignation, saying, "I just heard that she is out and she, I don’t think, had much of a choice."

The former president further added in recent months his campaign had been asking for more Secret Service agents at campaign events but was denied.

Trump also talked about an indoor rally he held in Michigan during the interview.

"Do I feel safe? Yeah, I have to feel safe. Otherwise, I guess, I wouldn’t be able to do this stuff," Trump said.

<h2>Kimberly Cheatle resigns</h2>

It is worth mentioning here,&nbsp;US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned on Tuesday (July 23) amid ongoing outrage over how the agency helmed by her failed to prevent the attempted assassination&nbsp;of former&nbsp;Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally earlier this month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-kimberly-cheatle-us-secret-service-director-who-resigned-days-after-trumps-assassination-bid-743559" target="_blank">Who is Kimberly Cheatle, US Secret Service director who resigned days after Trump's assassination bid?</a>

Cheatle said that one of the Secret Service’s foremost duties is to protect American leaders and that the agency "fell short of that mission" on July 13 when former US President Donald Trump faced attempted assassination.

"I do not want my calls for resignation to be a distraction from the great work each and every one of you do towards our vital mission," Cheatle said in an&nbsp;email sent to Secret Service agents.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former President Donald Trump plans to stop holding outdoor rallies, such as the one in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he was shot during an assassination attempt this month, according to two sources familiar with his campaign operations.

Former President Donald Trump plans to stop holding outdoor rallies, such as the one in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he was shot during an assassination attempt this month, according to two sources familiar with his campaign operations. The sources informed that the current plans are to hold indoor rallies, but it is likely that Trump will participate in smaller outdoor events or larger rallies in facilities where entry is fully controlled and there are no issues with high ground nearby. However, spokesperson for the Trump campaign and the Secret Service did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Also read: Donald Trump asks New York appeals court to throw out $454mn civil fraud verdict Notably, news of the venue change comes on the same day Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle announced her resignation. While in a phone interview with Newsmax on Tuesday (July 23) night, Trump commented on her resignation, saying, "I just heard that she is out and she, I don’t think, had much of a choice." The former president further added in recent months his campaign had been asking for more Secret Service agents at campaign events but was denied. Trump also talked about an indoor rally he held in Michigan during the interview. "Do I feel safe? Yeah, I have to feel safe. Otherwise, I guess, I wouldn’t be able to do this stuff," Trump said. Kimberly Cheatle resigns It is worth mentioning here, US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned on Tuesday (July 23) amid ongoing outrage over how the agency helmed by her failed to prevent the attempted assassination of former Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally earlier this month. Also read | Who is Kimberly Cheatle, US Secret Service director who resigned days after Trump's assassination bid? Cheatle said that one of the Secret Service’s foremost duties is to protect American leaders and that the agency "fell short of that mission" on July 13 when former US President Donald Trump faced attempted assassination. "I do not want my calls for resignation to be a distraction from the great work each and every one of you do towards our vital mission," Cheatle said in an email sent to Secret Service agents. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump to halt outdoor rallies following assassination attempt

US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned on Tuesday (July 23) amid ongoing outrage over how the agency helmed by her failed to prevent the attempted assassination&nbsp;of former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally earlier this month.

Cheatle said that one of the Secret Service’s foremost duties is to protect American leaders and that the agency "fell short of that mission" on July 13 when former US President Donald Trump faced attempted assassination.

"I do not want my calls for resignation to be a distraction from the great work each and every one of you do towards our vital mission," Cheatle said in an&nbsp;email sent to Secret Service agents on Tuesday (July 23).&nbsp;

She said she was deeply committed to the agency but added that, "in light of recent events, it is with a heavy heart that I have made the difficult decision to step down as your director."

<h2>Kimberly Cheatle resigns: Joe Biden reacts</h2>

In an official statement, US President Joe Biden hailed Kimberly Cheatle's record. "As a leader, it takes honor, courage, and incredible integrity to take full responsibility for an organization tasked with one of the most challenging jobs in public service," he wrote.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-kimberly-cheatle-us-secret-service-director-who-resigned-days-after-trumps-assassination-bid-743559">Who is Kimberly Cheatle, US Secret Service director who resigned days after Trump's assassination bid?</a>

"The independent review to get to the bottom of what happened on July 13 continues, and I look forward to assessing its conclusions. We all know what happened that day can never happen again. As we move forward, I wish Kim all the best, and I will plan to appoint a new Director soon," he added.

Reacting to her resignation, Trump wrote on Truth Social: "The Biden/Harris Administration did not properly protect me, and I was forced to take a bullet for Democracy. It was my great honor to do so!" &nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;US Secret Service director grilled by lawmakers on Trump assassination attempt

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Cheatle appeared before a congressional committee on Monday and said the attack on Trump represented "the most significant operational failure of the&nbsp;Secret&nbsp;Service&nbsp;in decades" -- a reference to the 1981 shooting of Ronald Reagan.

Both Republicans and Democrats called on Cheatle to resign during the tense House hearing.

US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned on Tuesday (July 23) amid ongoing outrage over how the agency helmed by her failed to prevent the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally earlier this month.

US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned on Tuesday (July 23) amid ongoing outrage over how the agency helmed by her failed to prevent the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally earlier this month. Cheatle said that one of the Secret Service’s foremost duties is to protect American leaders and that the agency "fell short of that mission" on July 13 when former US President Donald Trump faced attempted assassination. "I do not want my calls for resignation to be a distraction from the great work each and every one of you do towards our vital mission," Cheatle said in an email sent to Secret Service agents on Tuesday (July 23). She said she was deeply committed to the agency but added that, "in light of recent events, it is with a heavy heart that I have made the difficult decision to step down as your director." Kimberly Cheatle resigns: Joe Biden reacts In an official statement, US President Joe Biden hailed Kimberly Cheatle's record. "As a leader, it takes honor, courage, and incredible integrity to take full responsibility for an organization tasked with one of the most challenging jobs in public service," he wrote. Also read | Who is Kimberly Cheatle, US Secret Service director who resigned days after Trump's assassination bid? "The independent review to get to the bottom of what happened on July 13 continues, and I look forward to assessing its conclusions. We all know what happened that day can never happen again. As we move forward, I wish Kim all the best, and I will plan to appoint a new Director soon," he added. Reacting to her resignation, Trump wrote on Truth Social: "The Biden/Harris Administration did not properly protect me, and I was forced to take a bullet for Democracy. It was my great honor to do so!" Also watch | US Secret Service director grilled by lawmakers on Trump assassination attempt × Cheatle appeared before a congressional committee on Monday and said the attack on Trump represented "the most significant operational failure of the Secret Service in decades" -- a reference to the 1981 shooting of Ronald Reagan. Both Republicans and Democrats called on Cheatle to resign during the tense House hearing.

US Secret Service chief Kimberly Cheatle resigns days after Trump assassination attempt

Thomas Matthew Crooks' alma mater, the Bethel Park High School, has denied allegations that the gunman, who attempted to assassinate former US President Donald Trump, was relentlessly bullied. It also refuted to confirm that Crooks was rejected from the school's rifle team due to poor aim.

The statement, released on Saturday (Jul&nbsp;20) follows Crooks' dramatic assassination attempt on July 13. Perched on the roof of a bottle manufacturing plant in Butler County, Pennsylvania, Crooks tried to shoot Trump during a rally.&nbsp;

A US Secret Service sniper fatally shot Crooks after he injured Trump and several rally-goers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooter-thomas-crooks-was-a-nice-kid-who-got-bullied-reveal-his-former-classmates-740875">Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was a 'nice kid' who got 'bullied so much' reveal his former classmates</a>

<h2>School's statement</h2>

Bethel Park High School asserted that their records do not support claims of Crooks being bullied.&nbsp;

As per The Guardian reports, the school said that it was "a painful misconception that Thomas Crooks was relentlessly bullied in school."

"According to our records, Mr Crooks excelled academically, regularly attended school and had no disciplinary incidents, including those related to bullying," the school stated.&nbsp;

They described Crooks as a "quiet, bright young man" who "generally got along with his teachers and classmates".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-stage-an-assassination-attempt-or-did-democrats-order-the-hit-conspiracy-theories-suggest-this-740708" target="_blank">Did Trump stage an assassination attempt, or did Democrats order the hit? Conspiracy theories suggest this</a>

It also said that the school's rifle team coach "does not recall meeting" Trump's attacker.

"It is possible that Crooks informally attended a practice, took a shot and never returned," said the school adding, "We don't have any record of that happening".

<h2>Former students' allegations</h2>

This statement contrasts with testimonies from Crooks' former schoolmates. Jason Kohler, a 21-year-old alum, recounted how Crooks’ attire and solitary lunches marked him as a "loner" and an "outcast," leading to significant bullying.&nbsp;

Another former student, Jameson Myers, told ABC News that Crooks' poor shooting skills barred him from joining the school rifle team, a claim echoed by another schoolmate Jameson Murphy, who told the New York Post that Crooks was a "comically bad shot."

<h2>Why did Crooks try to kill Trump?</h2>

Authorities have yet to determine Crooks’ motive. Investigations reveal that Crooks had legally obtained the rifle from his father and meticulously planned the assassination attempt. This included purchasing ammunition on the day of the shooting and using a drone to survey the rally site.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thomas Matthew Crooks' alma mater, the Bethel Park High School, has denied allegations that the gunman, who attempted to assassinate former US President Donald Trump, was relentlessly bullied.

Thomas Matthew Crooks' alma mater, the Bethel Park High School, has denied allegations that the gunman, who attempted to assassinate former US President Donald Trump, was relentlessly bullied. It also refuted to confirm that Crooks was rejected from the school's rifle team due to poor aim. The statement, released on Saturday (Jul 20) follows Crooks' dramatic assassination attempt on July 13. Perched on the roof of a bottle manufacturing plant in Butler County, Pennsylvania, Crooks tried to shoot Trump during a rally. A US Secret Service sniper fatally shot Crooks after he injured Trump and several rally-goers. Also read | Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was a 'nice kid' who got 'bullied so much' reveal his former classmates School's statement Bethel Park High School asserted that their records do not support claims of Crooks being bullied. As per The Guardian reports, the school said that it was "a painful misconception that Thomas Crooks was relentlessly bullied in school." "According to our records, Mr Crooks excelled academically, regularly attended school and had no disciplinary incidents, including those related to bullying," the school stated. They described Crooks as a "quiet, bright young man" who "generally got along with his teachers and classmates". Also read | Did Trump stage an assassination attempt, or did Democrats order the hit? Conspiracy theories suggest this It also said that the school's rifle team coach "does not recall meeting" Trump's attacker. "It is possible that Crooks informally attended a practice, took a shot and never returned," said the school adding, "We don't have any record of that happening". Former students' allegations This statement contrasts with testimonies from Crooks' former schoolmates. Jason Kohler, a 21-year-old alum, recounted how Crooks’ attire and solitary lunches marked him as a "loner" and an "outcast," leading to significant bullying. Another former student, Jameson Myers, told ABC News that Crooks' poor shooting skills barred him from joining the school rifle team, a claim echoed by another schoolmate Jameson Murphy, who told the New York Post that Crooks was a "comically bad shot." Why did Crooks try to kill Trump? Authorities have yet to determine Crooks’ motive. Investigations reveal that Crooks had legally obtained the rifle from his father and meticulously planned the assassination attempt. This included purchasing ammunition on the day of the shooting and using a drone to survey the rally site. (With inputs from agencies)

Pennsylvania high school refutes claims of bullying in Trump's almost assassin Thomas Crooks' past

"I took a bullet for democracy," these were the words of former United States (US) president and current Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump as he held his first rally in Grand Rapids on Saturday (July 20) since surviving an assassination attempt on July 13.

"I took a bullet for democracy," these were the words of former United States (US) president and current Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump as he held his first rally in Grand Rapids on Saturday (July 20) since surviving an assassination attempt on July 13. Trump referred to the assassination attempt several times during his speech. "I hope I don't have to go through that again. It was so horrible," he added. Also read | Trump assassination attempt: Secret Service sniper killed shooter with 'one-in-a-million shot' "I'm not an extremist at all," Trump also said, dismissing his reported links to Project 25, a shadow manifesto from figures close to him that has been characterised by opponents as an authoritarian, right-wing wish list. Trump hits out at Biden, Democrats During the rally, Trump mocked the Democratic Party, which has been roiled by unprecedented pressure for President Joe Biden to abandon his reelection bid amid concerns over his age and fitness to serve. "They have no idea who their candidate is... This guy goes and he gets the votes, and now they want to take it away. That's democracy," he said. Trump further went on to slam Vice President Kamala Harris and Nancy Pelosi. Also watch | Gunman at Trump rally had drone in car, FBI probe reveals × “From the moment we take back the White House from Crooked Joe Biden and Kamala, I call her Laughing Kamala. You ever watched her laugh? She's crazy. You know, you can tell a lot by a laugh. No, she's crazy. She's nuts. She's not as crazy as Nancy Pelosi," Trump said. "Did you see Nancy Pelosi is selling out Biden? I think you see. She turned on him like a dog. ‘Well, I don't know if he should continue,’ where did that come from? She was 100%, all of a sudden, she's not sure. Not sure means he’s gone. But she's crazy as a bedbug. She's crazy,” he added. The Biden-Harris campaign dismissed the speech as Trump "peddling the same lies (and) running the same campaign of revenge and retribution."

Took a bullet for democracy: Trump addresses first campaign rally since assassination attempt

Democrat Congressman from Philadelphia, Brendan Boyle has called on US Secret Service (USSS) chief Kimberly Cheatle to "resign immediately" after former president Donald Trump narrowly avoided an assassination attempt.&nbsp;

Boyle has become the first Democrat leader to come out and openly demand Cheatle's resignation, joining a chorus of Republicans who have reiterated a similar demand.&nbsp;

"I am calling on Director Cheatle to resign immediately following last weekend's shooting of a presidential candidate in Western Pennsylvania. The evidence coming to light has shown unacceptable operational failures,"&nbsp;Boyle wrote on X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;

"I have no confidence in the leadership of the United States Secret Service if Director Cheatle chooses to remain in her position," he added.&nbsp;

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Director Cheatle must resign immediately. 
 
My statement calling for the resignation of United States Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle: <a href="https://t.co/q0ONU8PlAF">pic.twitter.com/q0ONU8PlAF</a>
— Rep. Brendan Boyle (@CongBoyle) <a href="https://twitter.com/CongBoyle/status/1814831914588533104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Cheatle has been under immense pressure from all quarters to tender her resignation but so far, she has refused to step down. She will, however,&nbsp;testify before the House Oversight Committee on Monday (Jul 22) regarding the failures that led to the near-catastrophic assassination attempt.&nbsp;

Thomas Crooks, the shooter who took aim at Trump, was merely 130 metres away from the former president and managed to compose himself on the roof of the building without any fuss.

The Secret Service agents did not spot him till he had fired multiple rounds and only neutralised him after&nbsp;Trump suffered a bullet wound on his right ear while a rallygoer was killed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Division in our society must be healed: Trump in first speech after he survived assassination

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<h2>Secret Service denied security to Trump</h2>

A Democrat leader demanding Cheatle's resignation comes after a report claimed that the Secret Service&nbsp;denied requests for additional resources and manpower to protect Trump.&nbsp;

The premier security agency admitted that in the past two years, several requests were put forth by Trump's security detail that were not granted.&nbsp;The ex-president's team had requested more agents and magnetometers at large public events he attended, as well as extra snipers for outdoor venues.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/secret-service-chief-confronted-by-gop-senators-over-trump-assassination-bid-742056">Also read |&nbsp;US Secret Service chief confronted by GOP senators over Trump assassination bid</a>

Notably, quizzed after the assassination bid on Trump, Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the Secret Service, had outrightly quashed the reports of denying security to the Republican leader.&nbsp;

“The assertion that a member of the former president’s security team requested additional security resources that the US Secret Service or the Department of Homeland Security rebuffed is absolutely false,” he said at the time.

However,&nbsp;Guglielmi has changed the stance now and claims that the Secret Service works in a 'challenging' environment' that may have led to the rejection of requests to beef up Trump's security.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Democrat Congressman from Philadelphia, Brendan Boyle has called on US Secret Service (USSS) chief Kimberly Cheatle to "resign immediately" after former president Donald Trump narrowly avoided an assassination attempt.

Democrat Congressman from Philadelphia, Brendan Boyle has called on US Secret Service (USSS) chief Kimberly Cheatle to "resign immediately" after former president Donald Trump narrowly avoided an assassination attempt. Boyle has become the first Democrat leader to come out and openly demand Cheatle's resignation, joining a chorus of Republicans who have reiterated a similar demand. "I am calling on Director Cheatle to resign immediately following last weekend's shooting of a presidential candidate in Western Pennsylvania. The evidence coming to light has shown unacceptable operational failures," Boyle wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "I have no confidence in the leadership of the United States Secret Service if Director Cheatle chooses to remain in her position," he added. Director Cheatle must resign immediately. My statement calling for the resignation of United States Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle: pic.twitter.com/q0ONU8PlAF — Rep. Brendan Boyle (@CongBoyle) July 21, 2024 × Cheatle has been under immense pressure from all quarters to tender her resignation but so far, she has refused to step down. She will, however, testify before the House Oversight Committee on Monday (Jul 22) regarding the failures that led to the near-catastrophic assassination attempt. Thomas Crooks, the shooter who took aim at Trump, was merely 130 metres away from the former president and managed to compose himself on the roof of the building without any fuss. The Secret Service agents did not spot him till he had fired multiple rounds and only neutralised him after Trump suffered a bullet wound on his right ear while a rallygoer was killed. Also watch | Division in our society must be healed: Trump in first speech after he survived assassination Secret Service denied security to Trump A Democrat leader demanding Cheatle's resignation comes after a report claimed that the Secret Service denied requests for additional resources and manpower to protect Trump. The premier security agency admitted that in the past two years, several requests were put forth by Trump's security detail that were not granted. The ex-president's team had requested more agents and magnetometers at large public events he attended, as well as extra snipers for outdoor venues. Also read | US Secret Service chief confronted by GOP senators over Trump assassination bid Notably, quizzed after the assassination bid on Trump, Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the Secret Service, had outrightly quashed the reports of denying security to the Republican leader. “The assertion that a member of the former president’s security team requested additional security resources that the US Secret Service or the Department of Homeland Security rebuffed is absolutely false,” he said at the time. However, Guglielmi has changed the stance now and claims that the Secret Service works in a 'challenging' environment' that may have led to the rejection of requests to beef up Trump's security. (With inputs from agencies)

First Democrat leader calls for Secret Service chief to resign over Trump assassination bid

US Secret Service (USSS) denied requests for additional resources and manpower to protect former president Donald Trump, a damning report in the Washington Post has&nbsp;claimed. After initially denying such claims in the immediate aftermath of the&nbsp;July 13 assassination attempt, USSS has now admitted that certain requesters by Trump's team were turned down in the last two years.&nbsp;

The ex-president's team had requested for more agents and magnetometers at&nbsp;large public events he attended, as well as extra snipers for outdoor venues.&nbsp;

The repeated rejections led to long-standing tensions between Trump, his top aides and his security detail against Secret Service leadership, the report added.&nbsp;

Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the Secret Service admitted that new information had surfaced indicating that the agency's headquarters may have in fact denied requests for additional security from Trump's detail.&nbsp;

“The Secret Service has a vast, challenging, and intricate mission. Every day we work in a dynamic threat environment to ensure our protectees are safe and secure across multiple events, travel, and other difficult environments," said&nbsp;Guglielmi.&nbsp;

"We execute a comprehensive and layered strategy to balance personnel, technology, and specialised operational needs."

Also watch |&nbsp;Division in our society must be healed: Trump in first speech after he survived assassination

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<h2>Secret Service's previous version</h2>

Notably, quizzed after the assassination bid on Trump, Guglielmi had outrightly quashed the reports of denying security to the Republican leader.&nbsp;

“The assertion that a member of the former president’s security team requested additional security resources that the US Secret Service or the Department of Homeland Security rebuffed is absolutely false,” he said at the time.

Secret Service chief&nbsp;Kimberly Cheatle is under pressure from all quarters to tender her resignation for failing to protect Trump.&nbsp;Cheatle, however, has refused to step down but will testify before the House Oversight Committee on Monday (Jul 22) regarding the failures.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-assassination-attempt-secret-service-sniper-killed-shooter-with-one-in-a-million-shot-report-742589">Also read |&nbsp;Trump assassination attempt | Secret Service sniper killed shooter with 'one-in-a-million shot': Report</a>

Thomas Crooks, the shooter who took aim at Trump was merely 130 metres away from the former president and managed to compose himself on the roof of the building without any fuss.

The Secret Service agents did not spot him till he had fired multiple rounds and only neutralised him after&nbsp;Trump suffered a bullet wound on his right ear while a rallygoer was killed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US Secret Service (USSS) denied requests for additional resources and manpower to protect former president Donald Trump, a damning report in the Washington Post has claimed.

US Secret Service (USSS) denied requests for additional resources and manpower to protect former president Donald Trump, a damning report in the Washington Post has claimed. After initially denying such claims in the immediate aftermath of the July 13 assassination attempt, USSS has now admitted that certain requesters by Trump's team were turned down in the last two years. The ex-president's team had requested for more agents and magnetometers at large public events he attended, as well as extra snipers for outdoor venues. The repeated rejections led to long-standing tensions between Trump, his top aides and his security detail against Secret Service leadership, the report added. Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the Secret Service admitted that new information had surfaced indicating that the agency's headquarters may have in fact denied requests for additional security from Trump's detail. “The Secret Service has a vast, challenging, and intricate mission. Every day we work in a dynamic threat environment to ensure our protectees are safe and secure across multiple events, travel, and other difficult environments," said Guglielmi. "We execute a comprehensive and layered strategy to balance personnel, technology, and specialised operational needs." Also watch | Division in our society must be healed: Trump in first speech after he survived assassination Secret Service's previous version Notably, quizzed after the assassination bid on Trump, Guglielmi had outrightly quashed the reports of denying security to the Republican leader. “The assertion that a member of the former president’s security team requested additional security resources that the US Secret Service or the Department of Homeland Security rebuffed is absolutely false,” he said at the time. Secret Service chief Kimberly Cheatle is under pressure from all quarters to tender her resignation for failing to protect Trump. Cheatle, however, has refused to step down but will testify before the House Oversight Committee on Monday (Jul 22) regarding the failures. Also read | Trump assassination attempt | Secret Service sniper killed shooter with 'one-in-a-million shot': Report Thomas Crooks, the shooter who took aim at Trump was merely 130 metres away from the former president and managed to compose himself on the roof of the building without any fuss. The Secret Service agents did not spot him till he had fired multiple rounds and only neutralised him after Trump suffered a bullet wound on his right ear while a rallygoer was killed. (With inputs from agencies)

US Secret Service admits denying 'extra' security to Trump that led to assassination bid

The bullet that killed the would-be-assassin of former United States (US) president Donald Trump on July 13, was a "one-in-a-million shot," Fox News reported on Saturday (July 20) citing a source.

The bullet that killed the would-be-assassin of former United States (US) president Donald Trump on July 13, was a "one-in-a-million shot," Fox News reported on Saturday (July 20) citing a source. The source said the kill shot was a single shot taken by a Secret Service counter-sniper whose view was obscured. A local tactical team also took a shot at the would-be assassin Thomas Matthew Crooks, but missed. Secret Service sniper could only see Crooks' gun scope The source told Fox News on Saturday that the Secret Service sniper could only see Crooks’ gun scope and the top of his eye and forehead because the lip of the roof was blocking the sniper’s view. Also read | Zuckerberg who once banned Trump from Meta, calls him 'badass' after surviving assassination bid It was a one-in-a-million shot, the source added. Secret Service chief faces calls to resign The above revelation comes as more details emerged about the botched security detail that allowed Crooks to climb onto a building, get a clear sight of Trump, and open fire on him. Trump, the current Republican presidential candidate, was not severely wounded but suffered an injury on his right ear. Fox News reported that while the Secret Service agents who stopped Crooks and protected Trump were being praised, the agency's director Kimberly Cheatle was being criticised for her handling of the matter. Cheatle has been facing calls to resign from lawmakers. Also watch | Division in our society must be healed: Trump in first speech after he survived assassination × On Monday, the House Committee On Oversight and Accountability has scheduled a hearing with her over the agency's handling of the incident. She has refused to resign but House Speaker Mike Johnson told Fox Business earlier this week that he was prepared to call on President Joe Biden to fire her. Security tightened for Trump's upcoming rally An increased security detail, road closures, and tighter checks should be expected among the measures taken by the Secret Service for Trump's upcoming rally which will be held at Grand Rapids’ Van Andel Arena later on Saturday. “Yeah, obviously, given the event that happened last week, right, I think you're going to see some increase. I think you've already seen it, you've been watching the the RNC (Republican National Convention), right, the number of agents that have been around former President Trump has been kind of way more than you would typically see," Former agency agent Jason Russell told the news agency Reuters. “You're definitely going to see some road closures around the venue, I think, just to facilitate getting the motorcade in and out, and also because you're going to see enough people that you probably won't be able to keep them just, you know, on, on the sidewalk,” Russell added. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump assassination attempt | Secret Service sniper killed shooter with 'one-in-a-million shot': Report

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has called Donald Trump 'badass' and inspiring after the former United States&nbsp;president narrowly escaped an assassination attempt before raising his fist and mouthing 'Fight, fight, fight', to the public gathered to see him&nbsp;during a Republican rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.&nbsp;

Zuckerberg, whose company Meta banned Trump from all its social media platforms in the aftermath of the January 6 insurrection attempt, waxed lyrical about the former president, without endorsing him.&nbsp;

“Seeing Donald Trump get up after getting shot in the face and pump his fist in the air with the American flag is one of the most badass things I’ve ever seen in my life,” Meta CEO&nbsp;told Bloomberg in an interview.

“On some level as an American, it’s like hard to not get kind of emotional about that spirit and that fight, and I think that that’s why a lot of people like the guy.”

Trump, however, may not be flattered by Zuckerberg's statements as he recently said he had not forgiven Meta or its founder for their actions. The former president&nbsp;has called Facebook the "enemy of the people" and said he preferred to use his platform&nbsp;Truth Social to communicate with his followers.&nbsp;

The billionaire added that he was "not planning" to endorse either Trump or his rival Joe Biden in the upcoming elections.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-rally-shooting-biden-condemns-shooting-at-donald-trump-rally-in-pennsylvania-740625" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;US Presidential Elections | Joe Biden or Donald Trump: Who is favoured?</a>

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<h2>Less political content on Meta</h2>

As for his social media site, Meta, Zuckerberg said his company was making changes to ensure people saw less political content on it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The main thing that I hear from people is that they actually want to see less political content on our services because they come to our services to connect with people," said the Meta CEO.&nbsp;

“I think you’re going to see our services play less of a role in this election than they have in the past.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-throws-his-weight-behind-donald-trump-with-sizable-donation-740383" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Elon Musk throws his weight behind Donald Trump with 'sizeable' donation</a>

While Zuckerberg trudged a careful line, his compatriot, Tesla and X CEO, Elon Musk, openly came in support of Trump after the events of July 13.&nbsp;

“I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery,” Musk wrote on X, which he owns.&nbsp;

The Tesla CEO, who has been siding towards the GOP lawmakers in the last few years, reportedly&nbsp;made a sizeable donation to Trump's presidential campaign in recent days as well.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has called Donald Trump 'badass' and inspiring after the former United States president narrowly escaped an assassination attempt before raising his fist and mouthing 'Fight, fight, fight', to the public gathered to see him during a Republican rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has called Donald Trump 'badass' and inspiring after the former United States president narrowly escaped an assassination attempt before raising his fist and mouthing 'Fight, fight, fight', to the public gathered to see him during a Republican rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Zuckerberg, whose company Meta banned Trump from all its social media platforms in the aftermath of the January 6 insurrection attempt, waxed lyrical about the former president, without endorsing him. “Seeing Donald Trump get up after getting shot in the face and pump his fist in the air with the American flag is one of the most badass things I’ve ever seen in my life,” Meta CEO told Bloomberg in an interview. “On some level as an American, it’s like hard to not get kind of emotional about that spirit and that fight, and I think that that’s why a lot of people like the guy.” Trump, however, may not be flattered by Zuckerberg's statements as he recently said he had not forgiven Meta or its founder for their actions. The former president has called Facebook the "enemy of the people" and said he preferred to use his platform Truth Social to communicate with his followers. The billionaire added that he was "not planning" to endorse either Trump or his rival Joe Biden in the upcoming elections. Watch | US Presidential Elections | Joe Biden or Donald Trump: Who is favoured? × Less political content on Meta As for his social media site, Meta, Zuckerberg said his company was making changes to ensure people saw less political content on it. “The main thing that I hear from people is that they actually want to see less political content on our services because they come to our services to connect with people," said the Meta CEO. “I think you’re going to see our services play less of a role in this election than they have in the past.” Also read | Elon Musk throws his weight behind Donald Trump with 'sizeable' donation While Zuckerberg trudged a careful line, his compatriot, Tesla and X CEO, Elon Musk, openly came in support of Trump after the events of July 13. “I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery,” Musk wrote on X, which he owns. The Tesla CEO, who has been siding towards the GOP lawmakers in the last few years, reportedly made a sizeable donation to Trump's presidential campaign in recent days as well. (With inputs from agencies)

Zuckerberg who once banned Trump from Meta, calls him 'badass' after surviving assassination bid

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has said that Thomas Matthew Crooks, who tried to assassinate former United States President Donald Trump last weekend, did not show signs of any mental health issues, the news agency Associated Press reported on Friday (July 19).

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has said that Thomas Matthew Crooks, who tried to assassinate former United States President Donald Trump last weekend, did not show signs of any mental health issues, the news agency Associated Press reported on Friday (July 19). Crooks, 20, killed one rallygoer and seriously wounded two others during Trump's campaign rally in Butler on July 13. The former president and current Republican presidential candidate suffered an ear injury but was not seriously hurt. A few days back, Kevin Rojek, the special agent in charge of the Pittsburgh field office, told reporters that there was no indication of any mental health issues with Crooks. Also read | REVEALED! What gunman Thomas Crooks searched prior to his assassination bid on Donald Trump Crooks used an AR-style rifle, which authorities said was purchased legally by his father. Investigators also found he brought multiple loaded magazines. Authorities found a bulletproof vest in his car and another rudimentary explosive device at his home. Crooks looked up dates of Trump's appearances Crooks had photos of Trump, incumbent President Joe Biden, and other top US officials on his phone including Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) Director Chris Wray, the AP reported on Friday citing sources. One of the sources said that investigators searching Crooks' devices also found that the shooter looked up the dates for the Democratic National Convention (DNC) as well as Trump’s appearances. Also watch | Will close border for illegal immigrants: Trump × The sources also told the Associated Press that the 20-year-old searched for information about major depressive disorder. However, investigators have not yet determined whether he was actually diagnosed with the disorder. The FBI investigation The FBI said it was investigating the shooting as a potential act of domestic terrorism but was yet to find a clear ideological motive. The agency has also been searching for clues into what drove Crooks to open fire on the July 13 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Since the shooting happened, the FBI gained access to Crooks’ cellphone, scoured his computer, home, and car, and interviewed more than 100 people so far. (With inputs from agencies)

No indication of any mental health issues with Trump's would-be-assassin: FBI

The father of the gunman who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump contacted the police prior to the shooting on Saturday (July 13) due to concerns about his son, according to media reports.

The call is one of several red flags that have come to light in recent days, indicating that law enforcement had been alerted before gunshots were fired at Trump's rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.&nbsp;

The US Secret Service, in particular, has faced increasing scrutiny over security measures, with some lawmakers calling for the resignation of the agency's head.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooter-thomas-crooks-may-have-been-struggling-with-mental-illness-report-742139">Trump shooter Crooks may have been struggling with mental illness: Report</a>

Thomas Crooks' father Matthew called police because he was concerned about his son and his whereabouts, a law enforcement source told CBS.

&nbsp;It's unclear when the call was made but it was before the shooting.

According to Fox news, Crooks’ parents, Mary and Matthew, told officers “they were worried” about their son and that he had disappeared without any notice.

His parents are both co-operating in the investigation, the FBI has said.

According to reports from the Washington Post and Associated Press, Thomas had also saved images of Trump, President Joe Biden, Attorney General Merrick Garland, FBI Director Chris Wray and a member of the British Royal Family.

However the investigators are still trying to outline a potential motive for the 20-year-old gunman, who was shot dead by Secret Service snipers after opening fire.

It may be mentioned here, a counter sniper flagged a suspicious man using a rangefinder to the US Secret Service some 20 minutes before the attack started.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooter-thomas-crooks-was-a-nice-kid-who-got-bullied-reveal-his-former-classmates-740875" target="_blank">Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was a 'nice kid' who got 'bullied so much' reveal his former classmates</a>

A rangefinder is a device used to measure the distance to a target.

Although, no weapon was spotted by law enforcement when Crooks was spotted in the crowd, officials are trying to determine how no one saw his AR-style rifle.

Investigators are examining various theories, including that he had stashed it earlier in the day.

Notably, when the gunman was apprehended, he was carrying a remote detonator, and his car contained explosives, according to law enforcement sources cited by US media. The motive for the attack remains unclear, and it is not yet known if any political ideology played a role.

(With inputs from agencies)

The father of the gunman who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump contacted the police prior to the shooting on Saturday (July 13) due to concerns about his son, according to media reports.

The father of the gunman who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump contacted the police prior to the shooting on Saturday (July 13) due to concerns about his son, according to media reports. The call is one of several red flags that have come to light in recent days, indicating that law enforcement had been alerted before gunshots were fired at Trump's rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. The US Secret Service, in particular, has faced increasing scrutiny over security measures, with some lawmakers calling for the resignation of the agency's head. Also read: Trump shooter Crooks may have been struggling with mental illness: Report Thomas Crooks' father Matthew called police because he was concerned about his son and his whereabouts, a law enforcement source told CBS. It's unclear when the call was made but it was before the shooting. According to Fox news, Crooks’ parents, Mary and Matthew, told officers “they were worried” about their son and that he had disappeared without any notice. His parents are both co-operating in the investigation, the FBI has said. According to reports from the Washington Post and Associated Press, Thomas had also saved images of Trump, President Joe Biden, Attorney General Merrick Garland, FBI Director Chris Wray and a member of the British Royal Family. However the investigators are still trying to outline a potential motive for the 20-year-old gunman, who was shot dead by Secret Service snipers after opening fire. It may be mentioned here, a counter sniper flagged a suspicious man using a rangefinder to the US Secret Service some 20 minutes before the attack started. Also read: Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was a 'nice kid' who got 'bullied so much' reveal his former classmates A rangefinder is a device used to measure the distance to a target. Although, no weapon was spotted by law enforcement when Crooks was spotted in the crowd, officials are trying to determine how no one saw his AR-style rifle. Investigators are examining various theories, including that he had stashed it earlier in the day. Notably, when the gunman was apprehended, he was carrying a remote detonator, and his car contained explosives, according to law enforcement sources cited by US media. The motive for the attack remains unclear, and it is not yet known if any political ideology played a role. (With inputs from agencies)

Father of gunman who targetted Trump alerted police about son before attack

Donald Trump began his speech at the&nbsp;Republican National Convention (RNC) on Thursday (July 18) on a note of love and unity and predicted that&nbsp;he will win the November election.

“I felt something really hard hit me at the right hand, I realised it could only be a bullet," former US president Donald Trump said while addressing the crowd.

“I put my hand on my ear and there was blood all over. Even then I felt safe because I had God on my side,” he further said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/father-of-gunman-targeting-trump-alerted-police-about-son-before-attack-742190">Father of gunman who targetted Trump alerted police about son before attack</a>

“If I would not have moved my head at that point, I would not have been here. The massive crowd in the rally did not move it did not lead to stampede, many lives were saved. They did not move because they knew I was in a bad condition,” the former president added.

Speaking further Trump said, “Our secret service sniper took the assassin's life with just one bullet, I stand here with the grace of almighty God. People though I was dead and they were sad, thousands of people started shouting "fight,fight,fight.. and then my fist went up and it was high above and the crowd was proud of me."

<h2>Trump formally accepts GOP presidential nomination</h2>

Trump officially accepted Republican Party's presidential nomination.&nbsp;"Tonight, with faith and devotion, I accept your nomination for president of the United States," Trump announced at the RNC.

<h2>Trump holds moment of silence for slain rally attendee</h2>

Trump asked to hold a moment of silence for Corey Comperatore, the man killed during the attempted assassination at a rally Saturday.

“I ask that we observe a moment of silence in honor of our friend, Corey,” Trump said during his remarks at the Republican National Convention.

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“There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for others, this is the spirit that forged America in her darkest hours and this is the love that will lead America back to the summit of human achievement and greatness. This is what we need,” he added.

<h2>No taxes on tips : Campaign pledge</h2>

Trump during the convention said, "If you are a restaurant worker, bartender, hospitality worker, caddy, barber, driver, or anyone else who relies on tip income, your tips will be 100% yours."

Currently, income from tips is subject to federal income tax, but Trump&nbsp;said he wants to&nbsp;exempt it from tax.

<h2>Trump calls Covid as 'China virus'</h2>

Trump once again brought back the&nbsp;controversial phrase,&nbsp;when he called&nbsp;Covid as "China virus".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-wild-scenes-at-rnc-as-hulk-hogan-rips-off-his-shirt-and-trump-blows-a-kiss-at-him-742197">Video: Wild scenes at RNC as Hulk Hogan rips his shirt and Trump blows a kiss</a>

As Trump repeated the controversial phrase, the crowd cheered.

<h2>Trump vows to end every single international crisis</h2>

"It's time for a change," Trump told the convention.&nbsp;Donald Trump further blamed the Biden administration for inflation, illegal immigration and a series of international crises.

<h2>Trump's family joins him on stage</h2>

Donald Trump's family was seen along with him on stage. Melania Trump, his wife, joined&nbsp;him&nbsp;first.&nbsp;Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner along with Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr and their families later joined them.

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump began his speech at the Republican National Convention (RNC) on Thursday (July 18) on a note of love and unity and predicted that he will win the November election.

Donald Trump began his speech at the Republican National Convention (RNC) on Thursday (July 18) on a note of love and unity and predicted that he will win the November election. “I felt something really hard hit me at the right hand, I realised it could only be a bullet," former US president Donald Trump said while addressing the crowd. “I put my hand on my ear and there was blood all over. Even then I felt safe because I had God on my side,” he further said. Also read: Father of gunman who targetted Trump alerted police about son before attack “If I would not have moved my head at that point, I would not have been here. The massive crowd in the rally did not move it did not lead to stampede, many lives were saved. They did not move because they knew I was in a bad condition,” the former president added. Speaking further Trump said, “Our secret service sniper took the assassin's life with just one bullet, I stand here with the grace of almighty God. People though I was dead and they were sad, thousands of people started shouting "fight,fight,fight.. and then my fist went up and it was high above and the crowd was proud of me." Trump formally accepts GOP presidential nomination Trump officially accepted Republican Party's presidential nomination. "Tonight, with faith and devotion, I accept your nomination for president of the United States," Trump announced at the RNC. Trump holds moment of silence for slain rally attendee Trump asked to hold a moment of silence for Corey Comperatore, the man killed during the attempted assassination at a rally Saturday. “I ask that we observe a moment of silence in honor of our friend, Corey,” Trump said during his remarks at the Republican National Convention. × “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for others, this is the spirit that forged America in her darkest hours and this is the love that will lead America back to the summit of human achievement and greatness. This is what we need,” he added. No taxes on tips : Campaign pledge Trump during the convention said, "If you are a restaurant worker, bartender, hospitality worker, caddy, barber, driver, or anyone else who relies on tip income, your tips will be 100% yours." Currently, income from tips is subject to federal income tax, but Trump said he wants to exempt it from tax. Trump calls Covid as 'China virus' Trump once again brought back the controversial phrase, when he called Covid as "China virus". Video: Wild scenes at RNC as Hulk Hogan rips his shirt and Trump blows a kiss As Trump repeated the controversial phrase, the crowd cheered. Trump vows to end every single international crisis "It's time for a change," Trump told the convention. Donald Trump further blamed the Biden administration for inflation, illegal immigration and a series of international crises. Trump's family joins him on stage Donald Trump's family was seen along with him on stage. Melania Trump, his wife, joined him first. Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner along with Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr and their families later joined them. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump recounts shooting at RNC: 'God on my side, I shouldn't be here'

Gunman Thomas Crooks, who attempted to assassinate former United States President Donald Trump, may have been struggling with an undiagnosed mental health disorder - including some form of depression, a report in the New York Post&nbsp;has claimed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is currently going through the sparse digital footprint left by Crooks. Although it is not clear if he ever sought professional mental health treatment, his internet history includes searches&nbsp;for major depressive disorder.&nbsp;

Crooks being depressed may fit with his character profile that has emerged in the wake of the failed assassination bid.

According to reports, the 20-year-old&nbsp;was a loner - an outcast in school who often sat alone in the cafeteria, looking down at his phone.&nbsp;He was bullied by his classmates and had an active interest in guns and firearms with some reports claiming that he had unsuccessfully tried out for the school's rifle team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-shooting-trumps-shooter-quiet-lonely-bullied-740959">Watch |&nbsp;Trump shooting: Trump's shooter 'quiet', 'lonely', 'bullied'</a>

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<h2>What has the investigation revealed so far?&nbsp;</h2>

The FBI on Wednesday informed members of Congress that Crooks had searched for Trump as well as President Joe Biden in the lead-up to the events of July 13.&nbsp;

FBI added that the 20-year-old&nbsp;searched for&nbsp;dates of Trump appearances and the Democratic National Convention (DNC) where Democrats are expected to certify Biden's nomination for the president.

However, the premier security agency of the US could not decipher the motive behind the shooting as Crooks had not posted anything incendiary for either side of the political spectrum.&nbsp;

There is still some 4.5 terabytes of data across a laptop, USB drives and two cell phones that the FBI needs to sift through to provide a conclusive picture of the 20-year-old's&nbsp;intention.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooter-thomas-crooks-was-a-nice-kid-who-got-bullied-reveal-his-former-classmates-740875">Also read |&nbsp;Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was a 'nice kid' who got 'bullied so much' reveal his former classmates</a>

Crooks was killed by the US Secret Service (SS)&nbsp;after he fired multiple rounds from an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle in a bid to&nbsp;assassinate Trump. The former president was saved by mere inches as the bullet meant for his head, only grazed the top portion of his right ear.&nbsp;

The 20-year-old shooter fired from a building, only 130 metres away from the Republican leader despite being well inside the security perimeter of Secret Service, FBI and local law enforcement agencies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Crooks had also placed explosives&nbsp;in his car and reports indicate that he planned to blow it up after surviving the immediate aftermath of the assassination attempt.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Gunman Thomas Crooks, who attempted to assassinate former United States President Donald Trump, may have been struggling with an undiagnosed mental health disorder - including some form of depression, a report in the New York Post has claimed.

Gunman Thomas Crooks, who attempted to assassinate former United States President Donald Trump, may have been struggling with an undiagnosed mental health disorder - including some form of depression, a report in the New York Post has claimed. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is currently going through the sparse digital footprint left by Crooks. Although it is not clear if he ever sought professional mental health treatment, his internet history includes searches for major depressive disorder. Crooks being depressed may fit with his character profile that has emerged in the wake of the failed assassination bid. According to reports, the 20-year-old was a loner - an outcast in school who often sat alone in the cafeteria, looking down at his phone. He was bullied by his classmates and had an active interest in guns and firearms with some reports claiming that he had unsuccessfully tried out for the school's rifle team. Watch | Trump shooting: Trump's shooter 'quiet', 'lonely', 'bullied' × What has the investigation revealed so far? The FBI on Wednesday informed members of Congress that Crooks had searched for Trump as well as President Joe Biden in the lead-up to the events of July 13. FBI added that the 20-year-old searched for dates of Trump appearances and the Democratic National Convention (DNC) where Democrats are expected to certify Biden's nomination for the president. However, the premier security agency of the US could not decipher the motive behind the shooting as Crooks had not posted anything incendiary for either side of the political spectrum. There is still some 4.5 terabytes of data across a laptop, USB drives and two cell phones that the FBI needs to sift through to provide a conclusive picture of the 20-year-old's intention. Also read | Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was a 'nice kid' who got 'bullied so much' reveal his former classmates Crooks was killed by the US Secret Service (SS) after he fired multiple rounds from an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle in a bid to assassinate Trump. The former president was saved by mere inches as the bullet meant for his head, only grazed the top portion of his right ear. The 20-year-old shooter fired from a building, only 130 metres away from the Republican leader despite being well inside the security perimeter of Secret Service, FBI and local law enforcement agencies. Crooks had also placed explosives in his car and reports indicate that he planned to blow it up after surviving the immediate aftermath of the assassination attempt. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump shooter Thomas Crooks may have been struggling with mental illness: Report

A man from Florida has been arrested for making threats against US President Joe Biden, just days after an assassination attempt on his Republican rival and former president Donald Trump.

The 39-year-old, Jason Patrick Alday was arrested on Monday (July 15), the US Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida said.

"Alday from Quincy, Florida, allegedly engaged in sending threatening communications, and made threats against President Joe Biden and other federal officials," the office said in an announcement Wednesday (July 17).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-tests-positive-for-covid-cancels-event-in-las-vegas-741857">Joe Biden tests positive for Covid, cancels event in Las Vegas</a>

According to the criminal complaint, Alday made threatening announcement about the US President while being admitted to a mental health facility in Tallahassee, Florida, last month.

He made further threats in posts on social media&nbsp;X. Alday has been ordered detained pending trial.

It may be recalled here, Donald Trump was wounded in the ear when a gunman opened fire during a campaign rally on Saturday in Butler, Pennsylvania.

A rally attendee was killed in the incident.

The 20-year-old gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was shot dead by Secret Service snipers.

Joe Biden tests positive for Covid

US President Joe Biden&nbsp;tested positive for Covid-19 following his initial event in Las Vegas, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said.

President Biden, who is vaccinated and also had a booster dose, is experiencing mild symptoms and will return to Delaware to self-isolate while continuing to fulfill his presidential duties, according to the White House.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pass-the-torch-biden-faces-strongest-call-so-far-to-step-aside-from-white-house-race-741841" target="_blank">Biden faces strongest call so far to drop out of White House race</a>

"The White House will provide updates on the President’s health status as he will continue his full duties of the office while being in isolation," she said.

According to a note from the President's doctor, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, Biden exhibited upper respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose, a non-productive cough, and general malaise. Although he initially felt well enough to attend his first event, Biden later underwent point-of-care testing for Covid-19, which came back positive.

The US president has begun treatment with his first dose of Paxlovid and will self-isolate at his home in Rehoboth, Delaware, following CDC guidelines for symptomatic individuals. PCR confirmation testing is pending, the note added.

A man from Florida has been arrested for making threats against US President Joe Biden, just days after an assassination attempt on his Republican rival and former president Donald Trump.

A man from Florida has been arrested for making threats against US President Joe Biden, just days after an assassination attempt on his Republican rival and former president Donald Trump. The 39-year-old, Jason Patrick Alday was arrested on Monday (July 15), the US Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida said. "Alday from Quincy, Florida, allegedly engaged in sending threatening communications, and made threats against President Joe Biden and other federal officials," the office said in an announcement Wednesday (July 17). Also read: Joe Biden tests positive for Covid, cancels event in Las Vegas According to the criminal complaint, Alday made threatening announcement about the US President while being admitted to a mental health facility in Tallahassee, Florida, last month. He made further threats in posts on social media X. Alday has been ordered detained pending trial. It may be recalled here, Donald Trump was wounded in the ear when a gunman opened fire during a campaign rally on Saturday in Butler, Pennsylvania. A rally attendee was killed in the incident. The 20-year-old gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was shot dead by Secret Service snipers. Joe Biden tests positive for Covid US President Joe Biden tested positive for Covid-19 following his initial event in Las Vegas, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. President Biden, who is vaccinated and also had a booster dose, is experiencing mild symptoms and will return to Delaware to self-isolate while continuing to fulfill his presidential duties, according to the White House. Also read: Biden faces strongest call so far to drop out of White House race "The White House will provide updates on the President’s health status as he will continue his full duties of the office while being in isolation," she said. According to a note from the President's doctor, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, Biden exhibited upper respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose, a non-productive cough, and general malaise. Although he initially felt well enough to attend his first event, Biden later underwent point-of-care testing for Covid-19, which came back positive. The US president has begun treatment with his first dose of Paxlovid and will self-isolate at his home in Rehoboth, Delaware, following CDC guidelines for symptomatic individuals. PCR confirmation testing is pending, the note added.

Florida man arrested after making death threats against Biden

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) told members of Congress on Wednesday (Jul&nbsp;17) that gunman Thomas Crooks, who attempted to kill former United States President Donald Trump had used his smartphone to search for images of the Republican leader as well as his successor&nbsp;Joe Biden.&nbsp;&nbsp;

FBI stated that Crooks also searched for&nbsp;dates of Trump appearances and the Democratic National Convention (DNC) where Democrats are expected to certify Biden's nomination for president.

Despite&nbsp;uncovering and cracking two of Crooks' mobile phones, the FBI said it had not found any definitive evidence to suggest that the 20-year-old shooter had strong partisan political views.&nbsp;

Further investigation of Crooks'&nbsp;devices revealed that he also searched about the director of the FBI, Christopher Wray, and US Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Crooks was killed by the US Secret Service (SS) last Saturday (Jul 13) after he fired multiple rounds from an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle in a bid to&nbsp;assassinate Trump. The former president was saved by mere inches as the bullet meant for his head, only grazed the top portion of his right ear.&nbsp;

Prior to being neutralised by the SS, Crooks managed to evade the heavy security arrangement and climbed to the roof of a building that brought him within a 130-metre radius of Trump. Reports indicate that the 20-year-old had pointed his rifle at a local law enforcement officer who had climbed the roof and moments later managed to take a shot at Trump.&nbsp;

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Secret Service spotted the shooter on the roof TWENTY MINUTES before the shooting. It’s becoming increasingly untenable to attribute this entirely to incompetence. It is inconceivable that Trump was allowed to take the stage ten minutes after a man who’d already been identified…
— Matt Walsh (@MattWalshBlog) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattWalshBlog/status/1813918150305501355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-suspected-trump-rally-shooter-was-a-quiet-lonely-bullied-child-in-school-reports-740885" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;US: Suspected Trump rally shooter was a 'quiet', 'lonely' &amp; 'bullied' child in school: Reports</a>

<h2><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-17="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-23="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-suspected-trump-rally-shooter-was-a-quiet-lonely-bullied-child-in-school-reports-740885/embed" width="560"></iframe></h2>

<h2>Who was Thomas Crooks?</h2>

According to reports Crooks was a loner who had been bullied in high school.&nbsp;Crooks' former classmates at Bethel Park High School described him as smart but standoffish who maintained his distance and could often be spotted wearing headphones and sitting alone at lunch - looking at his phone.&nbsp;

"He sat by himself, didn't talk to anyone, didn't even try to make conversation.&nbsp;He was an odd kid&nbsp;but nothing about him seemed dangerous," said Crooks' schoolmate,&nbsp;17-year-old Liam Campbell.&nbsp;

"Just a normal person who seemed like he didn't like talking to people."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/secret-service-chief-confronted-by-gop-senators-over-trump-assassination-bid-742056">Also read |&nbsp;US Secret Service chief confronted by GOP senators over Trump assassination bid</a>

Since the incident, numerous witnesses have come forward and claimed that they informed the&nbsp;Secret Service officials and other local authorities about the presence of Crooks but no action was taken.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) told members of Congress on Wednesday (Jul 17) that gunman Thomas Crooks, who attempted to kill former United States President Donald Trump had used his smartphone to search for images of the Republican leader as well as his successor Joe Biden.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) told members of Congress on Wednesday (Jul 17) that gunman Thomas Crooks, who attempted to kill former United States President Donald Trump had used his smartphone to search for images of the Republican leader as well as his successor Joe Biden. FBI stated that Crooks also searched for dates of Trump appearances and the Democratic National Convention (DNC) where Democrats are expected to certify Biden's nomination for president. Despite uncovering and cracking two of Crooks' mobile phones, the FBI said it had not found any definitive evidence to suggest that the 20-year-old shooter had strong partisan political views. Further investigation of Crooks' devices revealed that he also searched about the director of the FBI, Christopher Wray, and US Attorney General Merrick Garland. Crooks was killed by the US Secret Service (SS) last Saturday (Jul 13) after he fired multiple rounds from an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle in a bid to assassinate Trump. The former president was saved by mere inches as the bullet meant for his head, only grazed the top portion of his right ear. Prior to being neutralised by the SS, Crooks managed to evade the heavy security arrangement and climbed to the roof of a building that brought him within a 130-metre radius of Trump. Reports indicate that the 20-year-old had pointed his rifle at a local law enforcement officer who had climbed the roof and moments later managed to take a shot at Trump. Secret Service spotted the shooter on the roof TWENTY MINUTES before the shooting. It’s becoming increasingly untenable to attribute this entirely to incompetence. It is inconceivable that Trump was allowed to take the stage ten minutes after a man who’d already been identified… — Matt Walsh (@MattWalshBlog) July 18, 2024 × Watch | US: Suspected Trump rally shooter was a 'quiet', 'lonely' & 'bullied' child in school: Reports Who was Thomas Crooks? According to reports Crooks was a loner who had been bullied in high school. Crooks' former classmates at Bethel Park High School described him as smart but standoffish who maintained his distance and could often be spotted wearing headphones and sitting alone at lunch - looking at his phone. "He sat by himself, didn't talk to anyone, didn't even try to make conversation. He was an odd kid but nothing about him seemed dangerous," said Crooks' schoolmate, 17-year-old Liam Campbell. "Just a normal person who seemed like he didn't like talking to people." Also read | US Secret Service chief confronted by GOP senators over Trump assassination bid Since the incident, numerous witnesses have come forward and claimed that they informed the Secret Service officials and other local authorities about the presence of Crooks but no action was taken. (With inputs from agencies)

REVEALED! What gunman Thomas Crooks searched prior to his assassination bid on Donald Trump

The rooftop from which 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks shot at former United States (US) president Donald Trump during his campaign rally in Pennsylvania had been identified by the Secret Service as a "potential vulnerability" in the days before the rally, NBC News reported on Monday (July 15) citing sources.

The rooftop from which 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks shot at former United States (US) president Donald Trump during his campaign rally in Pennsylvania had been identified by the Secret Service as a "potential vulnerability" in the days before the rally, NBC News reported on Monday (July 15) citing sources. The NBC News report said that the building, owned by a glass research company, is adjacent to the Butler Farm Show, an outdoor venue in Butler, Pennsylvania. The sources told the network that the Secret Service was aware of the risks associated with it. The security arrangements during the rally One of the sources told NBC that someone should have been on the roof or securing the building so no one could get on the roof. Earlier, Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said that the agency worked with local law enforcement to maintain event security. Also read | Trump assassination attempt: Shooter purchased 50 rounds of ammunition before attacking ex-US prez However, no officers were posted on the building used by Crooks, outside the event’s security perimeter but only about 148 yards from the stage. Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said that his team has an Emergency Services Unit team, which deployed four sniper teams and four “quick response teams” at the rally. But Goldinger pointed out that Secret Service agents were in charge of security outside the venue. Secret Service defends response Following the assassination attempt on Trump, the Secret Service has been facing widespread criticism for its failure to detect the gunman. However, the agency, which is responsible for protecting presidents and former presidents, defended its response. Also watch | WION Fineprint: Secret Service faces scrutiny after Trump assassination attempt × "Secret Service personnel on the ground moved quickly during the incident, with our counter sniper team neutralizing the shooter and our agents implementing protective measures to ensure the safety of former president Donald Trump," Kimberly Cheatle, the Secret Service director, said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Rooftop from which gunman shot at Trump was identified as 'potential vulnerability' days before rally: Report

Former United States President&nbsp;Donald&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;survived an assassination attempt which he described as&nbsp;a "very surreal experience". The 78-year-old&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;was hit in the ear by a gunman at a campaign rally on Saturday (Jul 13). "I'm not supposed to be here, I'm supposed to be dead,"&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;on Sunday told the New York Post in an interview aboard his plane en route to&nbsp;Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention.&nbsp;

The 20-year-old man, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by the Secret Service agents immediately. Accused of attempting to assassinate Trump, the gunman had previously tried to join his high school's rifle team, however, he was rejected for being a "terrible" shot, media reports revealed.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rooftop-where-gunman-shot-at-trump-identified-as-potential-vulnerability-in-days-before-his-rally-report-741177">Rooftop from which gunman shot at Trump was identified as 'potential vulnerability' days before rally: Report</a>&nbsp;

Crooks had explosives in his car, US media reported Sunday, as investigators probed the attempted assassination of the Republican presidential candidate. The Wall Street Journal and CNN said that explosive materials were found in a car belonging to the shooter, which was reportedly parked near the campaign event venue in Butler, Pennsylvania.&nbsp;

FBI Special Agent Kevin Rojek told reporters Sunday that the gun used in the attempted assassination of former US president Donald Trump was an "AR-style 556 rifle" that was purchased legally. The FBI said that authorities believe the semi-automatic weapon was bought by the shooter's father, but do not yet know how he accessed the weapon or whether he took it without his father's knowledge.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-linked-stocks-surge-following-assassination-attempt-741129">Trump-linked stocks surge following assassination attempt</a>&nbsp;

While speaking with ABC News, Jameson Myers, said that Crooks was a poor marksman at school. Myers said that Crooks tried to join the high school's rifle team but was rejected and asked not to come back after a "pre-season" session. Myers was a school friend of Crooks.&nbsp;

"He didn't just not make the team; he was asked not to come back because of how bad of a shot he was; it was considered dangerous," Myers said as quoted.&nbsp;

Watch: Gravitas: How did the Secret Service fail to protect Trump?

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A team member who spoke to ABC News under anonymity said that there was a belief that Crooks "wasn't really fit for the rifle team". Meanwhile, the school system said that Crooks' membership in the rifle team was not documented.&nbsp;

ABC News stated that Crooks "never appeared on a roster" according to the school system. Interestingly, Crooks belonged to the Clairton Sportsmen's Club, a local shooting club. According to the team member's statement, "He also shot terrible," the media outlet reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Former United States President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt which he described as a "very surreal experience". The 78-year-old Trump was hit in the ear by a gunman at a campaign rally on Saturday (Jul 13).

Former United States President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt which he described as a "very surreal experience". The 78-year-old Trump was hit in the ear by a gunman at a campaign rally on Saturday (Jul 13). "I'm not supposed to be here, I'm supposed to be dead," Trump on Sunday told the New York Post in an interview aboard his plane en route to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention. The 20-year-old man, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by the Secret Service agents immediately. Accused of attempting to assassinate Trump, the gunman had previously tried to join his high school's rifle team, however, he was rejected for being a "terrible" shot, media reports revealed. Also read: Rooftop from which gunman shot at Trump was identified as 'potential vulnerability' days before rally: Report Crooks had explosives in his car, US media reported Sunday, as investigators probed the attempted assassination of the Republican presidential candidate. The Wall Street Journal and CNN said that explosive materials were found in a car belonging to the shooter, which was reportedly parked near the campaign event venue in Butler, Pennsylvania. FBI Special Agent Kevin Rojek told reporters Sunday that the gun used in the attempted assassination of former US president Donald Trump was an "AR-style 556 rifle" that was purchased legally. The FBI said that authorities believe the semi-automatic weapon was bought by the shooter's father, but do not yet know how he accessed the weapon or whether he took it without his father's knowledge. Also read: Trump-linked stocks surge following assassination attempt While speaking with ABC News, Jameson Myers, said that Crooks was a poor marksman at school. Myers said that Crooks tried to join the high school's rifle team but was rejected and asked not to come back after a "pre-season" session. Myers was a school friend of Crooks. "He didn't just not make the team; he was asked not to come back because of how bad of a shot he was; it was considered dangerous," Myers said as quoted. Watch: Gravitas: How did the Secret Service fail to protect Trump? × A team member who spoke to ABC News under anonymity said that there was a belief that Crooks "wasn't really fit for the rifle team". Meanwhile, the school system said that Crooks' membership in the rifle team was not documented. ABC News stated that Crooks "never appeared on a roster" according to the school system. Interestingly, Crooks belonged to the Clairton Sportsmen's Club, a local shooting club. According to the team member's statement, "He also shot terrible," the media outlet reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump assassination attempt: Attacker was reportedly rejected by school rifle team

Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania man, was identified as the&nbsp;shooter behind the assassination attempt on Republican Donald Trump at a campaign rally on Saturday (Jul 13).

Crooks, who was killed by Secret Service snipers after firing multiple shots at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, has been described by his former schoolmates as "quiet" and a "nice kid".

The motive behind Crook's shooting spree remains a mystery, but as per Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI's Pittsburgh field office, the 20-year-old man "so far" had no indications of any mental health issues.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-stage-an-assassination-attempt-or-did-democrats-order-the-hit-conspiracy-theories-suggest-this-740708">Did Trump stage an assassination attempt, or did Democrats order the hit? Conspiracy theories suggest this</a>

<h2>"Never have thought him capable," of this, says Crook's friend</h2>

Talking to CBS News, Crooks' childhood friend Jameson Myers described the Trump shooter as a "nice kid who never talked poorly of anyone," adding "I never have thought him capable of anything I've seen him do in the last few days."

"When I did speak with him, he just seemed like a normal boy who was not particularly popular but never got picked on or anything," said Myers.&nbsp;

Myers and Crooks, as per the publication, used to be close in elementary school but not in high school. They graduated together.

He also revealed that Crooks, who used a semi-automatic rifle to carry out the failed assassination attempt, had tried out for the Bethel Park High School varsity rifle team in his freshmen year. However,&nbsp;he had failed to make the junior varsity roster.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-survives-assassination-attempt-a-history-of-us-presidents-targeted-by-gunmen-740656">Explained | Donald Trump survives assassination attempt: A history of US Presidents targeted by gunmen</a>

<h2>Middle-class 'lonely' kid</h2>

A resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, Crooks as per another classmate, Jason Kohler, came across as "lonely" and "socially reserved".

Kohler, as reported by news agency&nbsp;AFP, revealed that the shooter was "just bullied. He was bullied so much." He said that Crooks was bullied for his hunting and camouflage clothes.

Dan Grzybek, a county council representative in the area where Crooks grew up, called the neighbourhood "pretty firmly middle class, maybe upper-middle class," reported The New York Times.

Crooks, as per the report, was working in a nursing home and the organization expressed shock upon hearing about his shooting at Trump, killing a rally attendee in the process.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania man, was identified as the shooter behind the assassination attempt on Republican Donald Trump at a campaign rally on Saturday (Jul 13).

Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania man, was identified as the shooter behind the assassination attempt on Republican Donald Trump at a campaign rally on Saturday (Jul 13). Crooks, who was killed by Secret Service snipers after firing multiple shots at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, has been described by his former schoolmates as "quiet" and a "nice kid". The motive behind Crook's shooting spree remains a mystery, but as per Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI's Pittsburgh field office, the 20-year-old man "so far" had no indications of any mental health issues. Also read | Did Trump stage an assassination attempt, or did Democrats order the hit? Conspiracy theories suggest this "Never have thought him capable," of this, says Crook's friend Talking to CBS News, Crooks' childhood friend Jameson Myers described the Trump shooter as a "nice kid who never talked poorly of anyone," adding "I never have thought him capable of anything I've seen him do in the last few days." "When I did speak with him, he just seemed like a normal boy who was not particularly popular but never got picked on or anything," said Myers. Myers and Crooks, as per the publication, used to be close in elementary school but not in high school. They graduated together. He also revealed that Crooks, who used a semi-automatic rifle to carry out the failed assassination attempt, had tried out for the Bethel Park High School varsity rifle team in his freshmen year. However, he had failed to make the junior varsity roster. Also read | Explained | Donald Trump survives assassination attempt: A history of US Presidents targeted by gunmen Middle-class 'lonely' kid A resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, Crooks as per another classmate, Jason Kohler, came across as "lonely" and "socially reserved". Kohler, as reported by news agency AFP, revealed that the shooter was "just bullied. He was bullied so much." He said that Crooks was bullied for his hunting and camouflage clothes. Dan Grzybek, a county council representative in the area where Crooks grew up, called the neighbourhood "pretty firmly middle class, maybe upper-middle class," reported The New York Times. Crooks, as per the report, was working in a nursing home and the organization expressed shock upon hearing about his shooting at Trump, killing a rally attendee in the process. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was a 'nice kid' who got 'bullied so much' reveal his former classmates

Former US President Donald Trump has credited an immigration chart for saving his life after an assassination attempt was made against him on Saturday (Jul&nbsp;13) in Butler County, Pennsylvania. Trump moved his head 'quarter of an inch' to look at border patrol statistics on the chart during his rally speech which eventually proved to be the difference between life and death for him.&nbsp;

Representative Ronny Jackson of Texas who was Trump's&nbsp;White House physician stated he held a telephone conversation with the Republican leader who told him about the chart.&nbsp;

“He [Trump] goes, ‘The border patrol saved my life,’” Jackson told The New York Times.&nbsp;

“‘I was going over that border patrol chart. If I hadn’t pointed at that chart and turned my head to look at it, that bullet would have hit me right in the head.’”

Jackson, who flew from New Jersey to Texas to meet his former patient, added that Trump "wasn't the least bit flustered" by the events of July 13.&nbsp;

Trump also held a phone interview with Fox News'&nbsp;Brett Baier who reiterated&nbsp;that the ex-president looked at the chart "early" and was then shot in the ear.&nbsp;

Trump referenced one of the pictures that showed the bullet missing him and said the doctor he spoke to stated, “if that bullet was a quarter of an inch different position, he would not be talking to that doctor today,” Baier added.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump rally shooting: What we know so far

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<h2>'It was God alone'</h2>

After the incident, Trump took to his Truth Social handle and said 'God alone' prevented the unthinkable from happening.&nbsp;

"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. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," Trump wrote.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-assassination-attempt-gunman-who-opened-fire-had-explosives-in-his-car-740823">Also read |&nbsp;Trump assassination attempt: Gunman who opened fire had explosives in his car</a>

"We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed," he added.

Earlier on Sunday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified the shooter as 20-year-old&nbsp;Thomas Matthew Crooks.&nbsp;He was a registered Republican, according to state voter records but also donated to the Democrats after Biden came to power.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US President Donald Trump has credited an immigration chart for saving his life after an assassination attempt was made against him on Saturday (Jul 13) in Butler County, Pennsylvania.

Former US President Donald Trump has credited an immigration chart for saving his life after an assassination attempt was made against him on Saturday (Jul 13) in Butler County, Pennsylvania. Trump moved his head 'quarter of an inch' to look at border patrol statistics on the chart during his rally speech which eventually proved to be the difference between life and death for him. Representative Ronny Jackson of Texas who was Trump's White House physician stated he held a telephone conversation with the Republican leader who told him about the chart. “He [Trump] goes, ‘The border patrol saved my life,’” Jackson told The New York Times. “‘I was going over that border patrol chart. If I hadn’t pointed at that chart and turned my head to look at it, that bullet would have hit me right in the head.’” Jackson, who flew from New Jersey to Texas to meet his former patient, added that Trump "wasn't the least bit flustered" by the events of July 13. Trump also held a phone interview with Fox News' Brett Baier who reiterated that the ex-president looked at the chart "early" and was then shot in the ear. Trump referenced one of the pictures that showed the bullet missing him and said the doctor he spoke to stated, “if that bullet was a quarter of an inch different position, he would not be talking to that doctor today,” Baier added. Also watch | Donald Trump rally shooting: What we know so far 'It was God alone' After the incident, Trump took to his Truth Social handle and said 'God alone' prevented the unthinkable from happening. "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. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," Trump wrote. Also read | Trump assassination attempt: Gunman who opened fire had explosives in his car "We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed," he added. Earlier on Sunday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks. He was a registered Republican, according to state voter records but also donated to the Democrats after Biden came to power. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump credits 'border patrol chart' for saving his life from assassination attempt

In trying to analyse events such as the failed assassination attempt on US presidential candidate Donald Trump, it is best to look not just at what happened but the circumstances in which it did. As conspiracy theories float amid a bitter contest between Republican Trump and incumbent Democrat President Joe Biden, what is clearly evident is that we have a perfect storm of sorts in US politics -- and by extension, global politics.&nbsp;

A perfect storm, idiomatically speaking, refers to a particularly bad situation caused by a combination of unfavourable circumstances. That description now fits the Democrats more than the Republicans but those swearing by Biden (they are a dwindling but loud number) will wave their flags to say the very assassination attempt shows what is wrong with an America ruled by Republicans, in which there is no control on a gun culture in which random individuals, including depressed or deranged schoolkids, go on trigger-happy sprees.&nbsp;

But that would be a nuance rather than an obvious truth in the backdrop of what is going on in the United States. If the political assassinations of Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi in India are any indication, Trump's Republicans may be heading for a win aided by what we might call a sympathy wave though that description does not seem to fit Trump, the Republicans or the US. But Trump certainly has a trump card of sorts to play as his clenched fist and a blood-smeared face is an image bound to pull in fence-sitters in the November 5 elections.&nbsp;

Given that conspiracy theories are floating around still on who was behind Lee Harvey Oswald, the emotionally disturbed US Marine veteran who killed President John F. Kennedy in 1963, stories and rumours on Thomas Mathew Crooks, who was killed by security men after the 20-year-old's attempt to kill Trump, are not likely to die out anytime soon. This is more so as everything gets connected with the elections. Things get complicated by the fact that Crooks has been a registered Republican though he contributed $15 once to a progressive group.

What matters more than campaign noises, however, is the fact that the contest is between a bumbling Biden and a tenacious Trump.&nbsp;

If strong leadership, especially in a presidential system like that of the US, is a factor, the Republican candidate towers over his rival, despite his conviction in a hush money scandal involving a porn star and a series of past financial irregularities in his career as a real estate tycoon. But he seems at this point to have a teflon coating added to his notoriously thick skin. Former US president Ronald Reagan was called the "Teflon President" because criticism or blame never seemed to stick on him. Like Trump, he also survived an assassination attempt. Trump has now inherited Reagan's teflon image, and the halo of victimhood may add another layer that stops political bullets.&nbsp;

Contrast him with Biden, who has been the subject of calls to quit the presidential race by his most avowed supporters including big Hollywood stars. Biden's skin is as thick as that of Trump as he has been rejecting such calls, even as he is being virtually laughed out of the race by Internet memes and real stories of his famous forgetfulness.

The Trump assassination bid happened even as the world was bantering over Biden&nbsp;mistakenly referring to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy as Putin. It doesn't get more embarrassing for a US prez to refer to a head of state at war by the name of the one he is at war with.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Trump rally shooting: Former President shot at Pennsylvania rally

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The interesting irony in all is that the US economy is doing rather well, thank you. The Democrats rode to power in 1992 under ex-president Bill Clinton with one of the catchy campaign phrases used by a strategist&nbsp;being "It is the economy, stupid."&nbsp;

"It is NOT the economy, stupid" may well be the right theme for the Democrats as jobs run high. Inflation is an issue for those chasing food and petrol prices but is on the lower side in the eyes of professional market economists. Pet Republican issues such as illegal immigration, restricted rights to abortion may look stronger to voters.&nbsp;

Democrats would hit hard on gun control but that would be a valiant attempt to piggyback on rivals. If high-profile leadership muscle comes into the picture, Biden looks profoundly weak, to say the least.&nbsp;

Overall, I would expect a further decline of the US as a superpower, unless the Democrats throw some unexpected punch with a change in candidate or something.&nbsp;

The US can hardly be expected to show some superpower muscle when its internal troubles are making it the Divided States of America. Internal instability in the US is a matter of global concern.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/trump-assassination-attempt-it-didnt-kill-him-but-will-it-make-him-stronger-740696">Also read |&nbsp;Trump assassination attempt: It didn't kill him, but will it make him stronger?</a>

Whether it is a prolonged war in Ukraine or the crisis in Gaza, international diplomacy is in a state of drift and that may worsen if the US does not show strong, ethical global leadership. Elections in France and the UK have also thrown up verdicts that show that internal factors may overpower external concerns in the West as a whole.&nbsp;

Trump is essentially an inward-looking politician, with a clear bias for his abrasive home agenda and old-fashioned white conservatism. He does not have superpower pretense unless it comes to strutting gestures that aid his flashy style or deal-making for American business.&nbsp;

That should be worrying for those who expect the US to play a judicious, stabilising role as a superpower, a label that looks increasingly doubtful. The coming months are going to be an anxious wait-and-watch period for those watching China's expanding footprint and expecting a healthy geopolitical balance.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;

In trying to analyse events such as the failed assassination attempt on US presidential candidate Donald Trump, it is best to look not just at what happened but the circumstances in which it did.

In trying to analyse events such as the failed assassination attempt on US presidential candidate Donald Trump, it is best to look not just at what happened but the circumstances in which it did. As conspiracy theories float amid a bitter contest between Republican Trump and incumbent Democrat President Joe Biden, what is clearly evident is that we have a perfect storm of sorts in US politics -- and by extension, global politics. A perfect storm, idiomatically speaking, refers to a particularly bad situation caused by a combination of unfavourable circumstances. That description now fits the Democrats more than the Republicans but those swearing by Biden (they are a dwindling but loud number) will wave their flags to say the very assassination attempt shows what is wrong with an America ruled by Republicans, in which there is no control on a gun culture in which random individuals, including depressed or deranged schoolkids, go on trigger-happy sprees. But that would be a nuance rather than an obvious truth in the backdrop of what is going on in the United States. If the political assassinations of Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi in India are any indication, Trump's Republicans may be heading for a win aided by what we might call a sympathy wave though that description does not seem to fit Trump, the Republicans or the US. But Trump certainly has a trump card of sorts to play as his clenched fist and a blood-smeared face is an image bound to pull in fence-sitters in the November 5 elections. Given that conspiracy theories are floating around still on who was behind Lee Harvey Oswald, the emotionally disturbed US Marine veteran who killed President John F. Kennedy in 1963, stories and rumours on Thomas Mathew Crooks, who was killed by security men after the 20-year-old's attempt to kill Trump, are not likely to die out anytime soon. This is more so as everything gets connected with the elections. Things get complicated by the fact that Crooks has been a registered Republican though he contributed $15 once to a progressive group. What matters more than campaign noises, however, is the fact that the contest is between a bumbling Biden and a tenacious Trump. If strong leadership, especially in a presidential system like that of the US, is a factor, the Republican candidate towers over his rival, despite his conviction in a hush money scandal involving a porn star and a series of past financial irregularities in his career as a real estate tycoon. But he seems at this point to have a teflon coating added to his notoriously thick skin. Former US president Ronald Reagan was called the "Teflon President" because criticism or blame never seemed to stick on him. Like Trump, he also survived an assassination attempt. Trump has now inherited Reagan's teflon image, and the halo of victimhood may add another layer that stops political bullets. Contrast him with Biden, who has been the subject of calls to quit the presidential race by his most avowed supporters including big Hollywood stars. Biden's skin is as thick as that of Trump as he has been rejecting such calls, even as he is being virtually laughed out of the race by Internet memes and real stories of his famous forgetfulness. The Trump assassination bid happened even as the world was bantering over Biden mistakenly referring to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy as Putin. It doesn't get more embarrassing for a US prez to refer to a head of state at war by the name of the one he is at war with. WATCH | Trump rally shooting: Former President shot at Pennsylvania rally The interesting irony in all is that the US economy is doing rather well, thank you. The Democrats rode to power in 1992 under ex-president Bill Clinton with one of the catchy campaign phrases used by a strategist being "It is the economy, stupid." "It is NOT the economy, stupid" may well be the right theme for the Democrats as jobs run high. Inflation is an issue for those chasing food and petrol prices but is on the lower side in the eyes of professional market economists. Pet Republican issues such as illegal immigration, restricted rights to abortion may look stronger to voters. Democrats would hit hard on gun control but that would be a valiant attempt to piggyback on rivals. If high-profile leadership muscle comes into the picture, Biden looks profoundly weak, to say the least. Overall, I would expect a further decline of the US as a superpower, unless the Democrats throw some unexpected punch with a change in candidate or something. The US can hardly be expected to show some superpower muscle when its internal troubles are making it the Divided States of America. Internal instability in the US is a matter of global concern. Also read | Trump assassination attempt: It didn't kill him, but will it make him stronger? Whether it is a prolonged war in Ukraine or the crisis in Gaza, international diplomacy is in a state of drift and that may worsen if the US does not show strong, ethical global leadership. Elections in France and the UK have also thrown up verdicts that show that internal factors may overpower external concerns in the West as a whole. Trump is essentially an inward-looking politician, with a clear bias for his abrasive home agenda and old-fashioned white conservatism. He does not have superpower pretense unless it comes to strutting gestures that aid his flashy style or deal-making for American business. That should be worrying for those who expect the US to play a judicious, stabilising role as a superpower, a label that looks increasingly doubtful. The coming months are going to be an anxious wait-and-watch period for those watching China's expanding footprint and expecting a healthy geopolitical balance. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Decoding the Trump assassination bid: Why the world should worry about a Divided States of America

After Donald Trump narrowly escaped&nbsp;an assassination attempt, all eyes are now on the former US President’s security and the lapses in it.&nbsp;

Trump was attacked by a shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. According to reports, the shooter was armed with a high-powered semi-automatic rifle of AR-15 variant. The weapon is notorious for its use in various shootings.&nbsp;

The personnel responsible for Trump’s security belong&nbsp;to the US Secret Service, which is trained for rapid and decisive actions in such scenarios where prompt response is required. For this, they also deployed a sniper team (also known as counter-sniper) at strategic positions during Trump’s rally to neutralise any threat.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/50-cent-kid-rock-and-others-react-to-donald-trumps-assassination-attempt-740957">50 Cent, Kid Rock and others react to Donald Trump's assassination attempt</a>

In the July 14 incident, the counter-sniper team used an Mk13 sniper rifle, which is a precision long-range weapon used primarily by US military forces, including the Navy SEALs.&nbsp;

A lot of conspiracy theories and criticism are going around on US Secret Service and its inability to promptly assess and respond to the situation.

In one video shared on X, a counter-sniper can be seen taking aim at the shooter, way before he shot at Trump, making people question why the US counter-sniper didn’t carry out a pre-emptive attack. Some even doubt his aiming skills, as he seems to lose the coordinates of the aim.

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Footage of US Secret Service sniper spotting the shooter &amp; protecting Trump from being assassinated ultimately saving his life. <a href="https://t.co/t69SysuIIx">pic.twitter.com/t69SysuIIx</a>
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Here’s everything you need to about the US Secret Services Counter Sniper team:

<h2>Who are Counter Snipers of US Secret Service that took down Trump’s shooter?</h2>

The Secret Service was created in 1865 as a response to threats against the US&nbsp;financial system. At the time, counterfeit money was a major problem, and the new agency’s mission was to identify and remove printing press operations and the dissemination of fake currency.

It wasn’t until 1901 after the assassination of President William McKinley that the Secret Service was tasked with the protection of the president.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/decoding-trump-assassination-bid-why-the-world-should-worry-about-a-divided-states-of-america-740953">Decoding the Trump assassination bid: Why the world should worry about a Divided States of America</a>

The Counter Sniper Team (CS) is a specialised unit within the US Secret Service that provides global long-range observation and tactical support to US Secret Service protective details. They also provide support to designated protectees, protected venues and National Special Security Events (NSSEs) on order.&nbsp;

The personnel of this team undergo 29 weeks of Uniformed Division Training along with 11 week of Counter Sniper Selection and Basic Training.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt, all eyes are now on the former US President’s security and the lapses in it. Trump was attacked by a shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

After Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt, all eyes are now on the former US President’s security and the lapses in it. Trump was attacked by a shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. According to reports, the shooter was armed with a high-powered semi-automatic rifle of AR-15 variant. The weapon is notorious for its use in various shootings. The personnel responsible for Trump’s security belong to the US Secret Service, which is trained for rapid and decisive actions in such scenarios where prompt response is required. For this, they also deployed a sniper team (also known as counter-sniper) at strategic positions during Trump’s rally to neutralise any threat. Also Read | 50 Cent, Kid Rock and others react to Donald Trump's assassination attempt In the July 14 incident, the counter-sniper team used an Mk13 sniper rifle, which is a precision long-range weapon used primarily by US military forces, including the Navy SEALs. A lot of conspiracy theories and criticism are going around on US Secret Service and its inability to promptly assess and respond to the situation. In one video shared on X, a counter-sniper can be seen taking aim at the shooter, way before he shot at Trump, making people question why the US counter-sniper didn’t carry out a pre-emptive attack. Some even doubt his aiming skills, as he seems to lose the coordinates of the aim. Footage of US Secret Service sniper spotting the shooter & protecting Trump from being assassinated ultimately saving his life. pic.twitter.com/t69SysuIIx — Trump Dayz (@TrumpDayz) July 14, 2024 × Here’s everything you need to about the US Secret Services Counter Sniper team: Who are Counter Snipers of US Secret Service that took down Trump’s shooter? The Secret Service was created in 1865 as a response to threats against the US financial system. At the time, counterfeit money was a major problem, and the new agency’s mission was to identify and remove printing press operations and the dissemination of fake currency. It wasn’t until 1901 after the assassination of President William McKinley that the Secret Service was tasked with the protection of the president. Also Read | Decoding the Trump assassination bid: Why the world should worry about a Divided States of America The Counter Sniper Team (CS) is a specialised unit within the US Secret Service that provides global long-range observation and tactical support to US Secret Service protective details. They also provide support to designated protectees, protected venues and National Special Security Events (NSSEs) on order. The personnel of this team undergo 29 weeks of Uniformed Division Training along with 11 week of Counter Sniper Selection and Basic Training. (With inputs from agencies)

Who are Counter Snipers of US Secret Service that took down Donald Trump’s shooter?

Donald Trump is one of the most protected political figures on the Earth, yet, somehow, on Saturday (July 13), an untrained assassin managed to aim a rifle at his head. As per a damning report, this happened even as the roof which shooter Thomas Crooks used to shoot at Trump was identified as a high-priority vulnerability spot for the Secret Service agency.

Citing a former senior Secret Service source familiar with the Butler, Pennsylvania rally site, NBC News reported that the site was known from previous Secret Service protections. In fact, the spot was a well-known vulnerability.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooting-us-president-biden-uses-oval-office-to-address-americans-was-it-a-subtle-flex-of-power-740907">Trump Shooting | US President Biden uses Oval Office to address Americans: Was it a subtle flex of power?</a>

<h2>Security 'failure'</h2>

The Security Service source called the assassination attempt a security "failure" and told NBC that two counter-sniper teams were there on site. They did not need approval to shoot, added the source.

"I mean, I think anybody with a little common sense, with no prior experience, just looking to the right of the stage, [would know] that is a very, very vulnerable spot to have a building for one thing, with a roof."

"You have multiple teams, you know, the CAT [counter assault team], the CS [counter sniper] team, the CAT team, the actual site, advance team, supervisor. I mean, they should have all called that out," he added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-to-investigate-trump-shooting-as-act-of-domestic-terrorism-what-does-this-mean-740948">FBI to investigate Trump shooting as act of 'domestic terrorism'. What does this mean?</a>

<h2>Where did the shooter fire from?</h2>

Thomas Crooks, identified as the shooting suspect by the FBI, was on the roof of a nearby building, around 500 feet (152 m) from former US president Donald Trump.

Richard Goldinger, the district attorney for Butler County, Pennsylvania, has also expressed his shock at the shooting.

"That's the most surprising thing to me, when we have a former president here, that a guy was...able to get up on a roof and take a shot," he said in a conversation with MSNBC.

"We had some law enforcement in that building, (making it) even more surprising that he was able to get up there," he added.

It's not just him. Officials and common people are all wondering how such a major security lapse happened.

Richard Painter, a law professor at the University of Minnesota, who previously worked as a White House official under George W. Bush, has called for "a detailed investigation into this egregious security failure."

"If there is a rooftop within rifle range of a president or a presidential candidate, it's the Secret Service that should be on that rooftop."

"Have they ever heard of the Texas Book Depository?" he asked, referring to the building from where President John F Kennedy's assassin Lee Harvey Oswald murdered him using a long-range rifle in 1963.

"The shooter was outside the Secret Service perimeter. What kind of a perimeter is that? We know that any crackpot can all too easily buy a high-powered rifle in the United States. The perimeter needs to be as far as the eye can see," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump is one of the most protected political figures on the Earth, yet, somehow, on Saturday (July 13), an untrained assassin managed to aim a rifle at his head.

Donald Trump is one of the most protected political figures on the Earth, yet, somehow, on Saturday (July 13), an untrained assassin managed to aim a rifle at his head. As per a damning report, this happened even as the roof which shooter Thomas Crooks used to shoot at Trump was identified as a high-priority vulnerability spot for the Secret Service agency. Citing a former senior Secret Service source familiar with the Butler, Pennsylvania rally site, NBC News reported that the site was known from previous Secret Service protections. In fact, the spot was a well-known vulnerability. Also read | Trump Shooting | US President Biden uses Oval Office to address Americans: Was it a subtle flex of power? Security 'failure' The Security Service source called the assassination attempt a security "failure" and told NBC that two counter-sniper teams were there on site. They did not need approval to shoot, added the source. "I mean, I think anybody with a little common sense, with no prior experience, just looking to the right of the stage, [would know] that is a very, very vulnerable spot to have a building for one thing, with a roof." "You have multiple teams, you know, the CAT [counter assault team], the CS [counter sniper] team, the CAT team, the actual site, advance team, supervisor. I mean, they should have all called that out," he added. Also read | FBI to investigate Trump shooting as act of 'domestic terrorism'. What does this mean? Where did the shooter fire from? Thomas Crooks, identified as the shooting suspect by the FBI, was on the roof of a nearby building, around 500 feet (152 m) from former US president Donald Trump. Richard Goldinger, the district attorney for Butler County, Pennsylvania, has also expressed his shock at the shooting. "That's the most surprising thing to me, when we have a former president here, that a guy was...able to get up on a roof and take a shot," he said in a conversation with MSNBC. "We had some law enforcement in that building, (making it) even more surprising that he was able to get up there," he added. It's not just him. Officials and common people are all wondering how such a major security lapse happened. Richard Painter, a law professor at the University of Minnesota, who previously worked as a White House official under George W. Bush, has called for "a detailed investigation into this egregious security failure." "If there is a rooftop within rifle range of a president or a presidential candidate, it's the Secret Service that should be on that rooftop." "Have they ever heard of the Texas Book Depository?" he asked, referring to the building from where President John F Kennedy's assassin Lee Harvey Oswald murdered him using a long-range rifle in 1963. "The shooter was outside the Secret Service perimeter. What kind of a perimeter is that? We know that any crackpot can all too easily buy a high-powered rifle in the United States. The perimeter needs to be as far as the eye can see," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump shooting security 'failure': Secret Service knew roof was vulnerable spot, reveals report

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old gunman who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump, had pointed his&nbsp;AR-style rifle at a local law enforcement officer who climbed the roof. The officer, threatened by Crooks, retreated down the ladder and moments later, Trump was shot, law enforcement officials told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

Since the incident, numerous witnesses have come forward and claimed that they informed the US Secret Service officials and other local authorities about the presence of a gunman on the roof of a building near the rally.&nbsp;

“We noticed the guy crawling, bear-crawling, up the roof of the building beside us, 50ft away from us,” one of the witnesses told BBC.

Despite identifying the rooftop as a potentially vulnerable point in the security detail of the former president, the Secret Service did not act in time.&nbsp;

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel, Pennsylvania. He was neutralised by the United States Secret Service agents

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-suspected-trump-rally-shooter-was-a-quiet-lonely-bullied-child-in-school-reports-740885" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;US: Suspected Trump rally shooter was a 'quiet', 'lonely' &amp; 'bullied' child in school: Reports</a>

<h2><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-17="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-suspected-trump-rally-shooter-was-a-quiet-lonely-bullied-child-in-school-reports-740885/embed" width="560"></iframe></h2>

<h2>FBI and Secret Service</h2>

Notably, FBI officials seemingly threw the Secret Service under the bus, post the failed assassination bid.&nbsp;

“It is surprising but, to get all the details of that will come out later in the investigation," said&nbsp;Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office when quizzed he was surprised at the number of shots.

"The Secret Service really needs to answer that question,” Rojek stated, adding that the FBI was only there to support the Secret Service who were in charge of securing the scene.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/witnesses-warned-trumps-security-about-shooter-minutes-before-shots-were-fired-reports-740874">Also read |&nbsp;Witnesses warned Trump's security about shooter minutes before shots were fired: Reports</a>

While the FBI threw Secret Service to the wolves,&nbsp;Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens came to their rescue.&nbsp;

“In their defence, what I would want to say is it is incredibly difficult to have a venue open to the public and secure that against any possible threat against a determined attacker, that’s a huge lift to try and do it,” Bivens told reporters.

Meanwhile, FBI stated that the incident would be&nbsp;investigated as a potential act of "domestic terrorism".&nbsp;Also known as home-grown terrorism, it is a form of terrorism in which victims "within a country are targeted by a perpetrator with the same citizenship" as the victims.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old gunman who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump, had pointed his AR-style rifle at a local law enforcement officer who climbed the roof.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old gunman who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump, had pointed his AR-style rifle at a local law enforcement officer who climbed the roof. The officer, threatened by Crooks, retreated down the ladder and moments later, Trump was shot, law enforcement officials told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. Since the incident, numerous witnesses have come forward and claimed that they informed the US Secret Service officials and other local authorities about the presence of a gunman on the roof of a building near the rally. “We noticed the guy crawling, bear-crawling, up the roof of the building beside us, 50ft away from us,” one of the witnesses told BBC. Despite identifying the rooftop as a potentially vulnerable point in the security detail of the former president, the Secret Service did not act in time. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel, Pennsylvania. He was neutralised by the United States Secret Service agents Watch | US: Suspected Trump rally shooter was a 'quiet', 'lonely' & 'bullied' child in school: Reports FBI and Secret Service Notably, FBI officials seemingly threw the Secret Service under the bus, post the failed assassination bid. “It is surprising but, to get all the details of that will come out later in the investigation," said Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office when quizzed he was surprised at the number of shots. "The Secret Service really needs to answer that question,” Rojek stated, adding that the FBI was only there to support the Secret Service who were in charge of securing the scene. Also read | Witnesses warned Trump's security about shooter minutes before shots were fired: Reports While the FBI threw Secret Service to the wolves, Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens came to their rescue. “In their defence, what I would want to say is it is incredibly difficult to have a venue open to the public and secure that against any possible threat against a determined attacker, that’s a huge lift to try and do it,” Bivens told reporters. Meanwhile, FBI stated that the incident would be investigated as a potential act of "domestic terrorism". Also known as home-grown terrorism, it is a form of terrorism in which victims "within a country are targeted by a perpetrator with the same citizenship" as the victims. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump rally shooting: Local officer retreated from roof after Thomas Crooks pointed rifle at him - Report

Donald Trump's brush with death on Saturday (Jul&nbsp;13) will be investigated as a potential act of "domestic terrorism," announced the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Sunday (Jul&nbsp;14).

"We are investigating this as an assassination attempt, but also looking at it as a potential domestic terrorism act," said Robert Wells, the assistant director of the FBI counterterrorism division, while talking to reporters.

Updating the press about the shooter Thomas Crooks' motives, Wells said that the shooter acted alone and had no known ideology.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooter-thomas-crooks-was-a-nice-kid-who-got-bullied-reveal-his-former-classmates-740875">Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was a 'nice kid' who got 'bullied so much' reveal his former classmates</a>

<h2>What is 'domestic terrorism'?</h2>

Also known as home-grown terrorism, it is a form of terrorism in which victims "within a country are targeted by a perpetrator with the same citizenship" as the victims.

The FBI defines it as "Violent, criminal acts committed by individuals and/or groups to further ideological goals stemming from domestic influences, such as those of a political, religious, social, racial, or environmental nature."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooting-us-president-biden-uses-oval-office-to-address-americans-was-it-a-subtle-flex-of-power-740907">Trump Shooting | US President Biden uses Oval Office to address Americans: Was it a subtle flex of power?</a>

<h2>Crooks' motives</h2>

Even as the FBI continues to investigate 20-year-old Thomas Crooks' motivations for the attack on Trump, Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI's Pittsburgh field office, said that, so far, they have not found any evidence of mental health issues.

Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder told reporters that Crooks did not have any military affiliations.

Media reports, citing the 20-year-old Pennsylvania man's former classmates, have reported that he was&nbsp;a "nice kid who never talked poorly of anyone."

Crooks'&nbsp;childhood friend Jameson Myers also said,&nbsp;"I never have thought him capable of anything I've seen him do in the last few days."

<h2>US' Domestic Terrorism Act</h2>

The Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2023 authorizes domestic terrorism components within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to monitor, analyse, investigate, and prosecute incidents of domestic terrorism.

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump's brush with death on Saturday (Jul 13) will be investigated as a potential act of "domestic terrorism," announced the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Sunday (Jul 14).

Donald Trump's brush with death on Saturday (Jul 13) will be investigated as a potential act of "domestic terrorism," announced the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Sunday (Jul 14). "We are investigating this as an assassination attempt, but also looking at it as a potential domestic terrorism act," said Robert Wells, the assistant director of the FBI counterterrorism division, while talking to reporters. Updating the press about the shooter Thomas Crooks' motives, Wells said that the shooter acted alone and had no known ideology. Also read | Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was a 'nice kid' who got 'bullied so much' reveal his former classmates What is 'domestic terrorism'? Also known as home-grown terrorism, it is a form of terrorism in which victims "within a country are targeted by a perpetrator with the same citizenship" as the victims. The FBI defines it as "Violent, criminal acts committed by individuals and/or groups to further ideological goals stemming from domestic influences, such as those of a political, religious, social, racial, or environmental nature." Also read | Trump Shooting | US President Biden uses Oval Office to address Americans: Was it a subtle flex of power? Crooks' motives Even as the FBI continues to investigate 20-year-old Thomas Crooks' motivations for the attack on Trump, Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI's Pittsburgh field office, said that, so far, they have not found any evidence of mental health issues. Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder told reporters that Crooks did not have any military affiliations. Media reports, citing the 20-year-old Pennsylvania man's former classmates, have reported that he was a "nice kid who never talked poorly of anyone." Crooks' childhood friend Jameson Myers also said, "I never have thought him capable of anything I've seen him do in the last few days." US' Domestic Terrorism Act The Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2023 authorizes domestic terrorism components within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to monitor, analyse, investigate, and prosecute incidents of domestic terrorism. (With inputs from agencies)

FBI to investigate Trump shooting as act of 'domestic terrorism'. What does this mean?

Former US President Donald Trump has rewritten his speech for the Republican National Convention (RNC), due to start on Monday (Jul 15). The assassination attempt on the Republican leader has had a profound impact as he is expected to focus on bringing the nation together instead of the usual rambling about his rival, Joe Biden's policies.&nbsp;

Trump said he wanted to take advantage of the historic moment to deliver the message of unity instead of his previous plan of exciting the voter base.&nbsp;

“The speech I was going to give on Thursday was going to be a humdinger,” Trump said in an interview with the&nbsp;Washington Examiner.

"The speech will be a lot different, a lot different than it would've been two days ago.&nbsp;It is a chance to bring the country together. I was given that chance," he added.&nbsp;

Trump has already landed in Milwaukee for the convention but is not scheduled to speak until Thursday (Jul 18) night.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-suspected-trump-rally-shooter-was-a-quiet-lonely-bullied-child-in-school-reports-740885" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;US: Suspected Trump rally shooter was a 'quiet', 'lonely' &amp; 'bullied' child in school: Reports</a>

<h2><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-17="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-suspected-trump-rally-shooter-was-a-quiet-lonely-bullied-child-in-school-reports-740885/embed" width="560"></iframe> 
 
'Reality is setting'&nbsp;</h2>

The former president reflected on the events post the assassination attempt, stating that people from different walks of life and political views had reached out to him.&nbsp;

“That reality is just setting in,” he said. “I rarely look away from the crowd. Had I not done that in that moment, well, we would not be talking today, would we?”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-credits-border-patrol-chart-for-saving-his-life-from-assassination-attempt-740870">Also read | Donald Trump credits 'border patrol chart' for saving his life from assassination attempt</a>

On Sunday morning, Trump posted a heartfelt message on his Truth Social handle where he said 'God alone' protected him from death.&nbsp;

"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. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," Trump wrote.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel, Pennsylvania. He was neutralised by the United States Secret Service agents, shortly after he fired the multiple rounds that grazed Trump's right ear while killing one civilian and injuring another.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Crooks was a registered Republican, according to state voter records but also donated to the Democrats after Biden came to power. His motive for the incident remains unknown at this stage.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US President Donald Trump has rewritten his speech for the Republican National Convention (RNC), due to start on Monday (Jul 15). The assassination attempt on the Republican leader has had a profound impact as he is expected to focus on bringing the nation together instead of the usual rambling about his rival, Joe Biden's policies.

Former US President Donald Trump has rewritten his speech for the Republican National Convention (RNC), due to start on Monday (Jul 15). The assassination attempt on the Republican leader has had a profound impact as he is expected to focus on bringing the nation together instead of the usual rambling about his rival, Joe Biden's policies. Trump said he wanted to take advantage of the historic moment to deliver the message of unity instead of his previous plan of exciting the voter base. “The speech I was going to give on Thursday was going to be a humdinger,” Trump said in an interview with the Washington Examiner. "The speech will be a lot different, a lot different than it would've been two days ago. It is a chance to bring the country together. I was given that chance," he added. Trump has already landed in Milwaukee for the convention but is not scheduled to speak until Thursday (Jul 18) night. Watch | US: Suspected Trump rally shooter was a 'quiet', 'lonely' & 'bullied' child in school: Reports 'Reality is setting' The former president reflected on the events post the assassination attempt, stating that people from different walks of life and political views had reached out to him. “That reality is just setting in,” he said. “I rarely look away from the crowd. Had I not done that in that moment, well, we would not be talking today, would we?” Also read | Donald Trump credits 'border patrol chart' for saving his life from assassination attempt On Sunday morning, Trump posted a heartfelt message on his Truth Social handle where he said 'God alone' protected him from death. "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. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," Trump wrote. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel, Pennsylvania. He was neutralised by the United States Secret Service agents, shortly after he fired the multiple rounds that grazed Trump's right ear while killing one civilian and injuring another. Crooks was a registered Republican, according to state voter records but also donated to the Democrats after Biden came to power. His motive for the incident remains unknown at this stage. (With inputs from agencies)

'A lot different': Donald Trump rewrites his RNC speech after assassination attempt

The shooter of Donald Trump’s assassination attempt, a 20-year-old kitchen worker, Thomas Matthew&nbsp;Crooks was shot at the incident. The attack took place when the former US president was giving a speech at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.&nbsp;

Police and concerned authorities are still investigating Crooks’ motive.

"We do not currently have an identified motive," said Kevin Rojek, FBI Pittsburgh special agent in charge, at a briefing on Saturday night.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooting-security-failure-secret-service-knew-roof-was-vulnerable-spot-reveals-report-740997">Trump shooting security 'failure': Secret Service knew roof was vulnerable spot, reveals report</a>

According to reports, the shooter was armed with a high-powered semi-automatic rifle of AR-15 variant, the weapon notorious for its use in various shootings.

&nbsp;

<h2>AR-15, the gun used by the Trump shooter, is America’s most notorious weapon</h2>

AR-15-style rifle is one of the most popular and deadliest guns in the US. It has been commonly seen in some of the country’s worst mass shootings.&nbsp;

The rifle was originally designed by Eugene Stoner in the late 1950s for Armalite. It was later sold to Colt, who marketed it to military and civilian markets.

The AR-15 is chambered in relatively small, high-velocity rounds. This rifle features a modular design, allowing its users to easily customize and configure it with different stocks, grips, sights, and other accessories, which makes it versatile and easy to use. This is one of the main reasons why it is top favourite among sport shooters, hunters, and law enforcement agencies.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-counter-snipers-of-us-secret-service-that-took-down-donald-trumps-shooter-740971">Who are Counter Snipers of US Secret Service that took down Donald Trump’s shooter?</a>

Another reason for its popularity is its price:&nbsp;buying an AR-16 is easy and cheap. Depending on the state of residence, a prospective owner can walk into a gun shop and, after presenting a valid ID, buy a rifle or shotgun provided they pass a federal background check.

A Washington Post poll in 2023 estimated that one in 20 American adults owns at least one AR-15.

In terms of performance, the AR-15 typically has an effective range of around 500 to 600 metres for accurate shooting. It is known for its accuracy, manageable recoil, and adaptability

It is mostly used by US civilians, but its design also allows it to be the foundation for many military rifles, including the M16 and M4 carbines, which have seen extensive use by the US military. The AR-15's adaptability, combined with its high rate of fire in its military variants, has also made it a point of controversy in discussions about gun control, particularly in the context of its use in several high-profile mass shootings.

(With inputs from agencies)

The shooter of Donald Trump’s assassination attempt, a 20-year-old kitchen worker, Thomas Matthew Crooks was shot at the incident. The attack took place when the former US president was giving a speech at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

The shooter of Donald Trump’s assassination attempt, a 20-year-old kitchen worker, Thomas Matthew Crooks was shot at the incident. The attack took place when the former US president was giving a speech at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Police and concerned authorities are still investigating Crooks’ motive. "We do not currently have an identified motive," said Kevin Rojek, FBI Pittsburgh special agent in charge, at a briefing on Saturday night. Also Read | Trump shooting security 'failure': Secret Service knew roof was vulnerable spot, reveals report According to reports, the shooter was armed with a high-powered semi-automatic rifle of AR-15 variant, the weapon notorious for its use in various shootings. AR-15, the gun used by the Trump shooter, is America’s most notorious weapon AR-15-style rifle is one of the most popular and deadliest guns in the US. It has been commonly seen in some of the country’s worst mass shootings. The rifle was originally designed by Eugene Stoner in the late 1950s for Armalite. It was later sold to Colt, who marketed it to military and civilian markets. The AR-15 is chambered in relatively small, high-velocity rounds. This rifle features a modular design, allowing its users to easily customize and configure it with different stocks, grips, sights, and other accessories, which makes it versatile and easy to use. This is one of the main reasons why it is top favourite among sport shooters, hunters, and law enforcement agencies. Also Read | Who are Counter Snipers of US Secret Service that took down Donald Trump’s shooter? Another reason for its popularity is its price: buying an AR-16 is easy and cheap. Depending on the state of residence, a prospective owner can walk into a gun shop and, after presenting a valid ID, buy a rifle or shotgun provided they pass a federal background check. A Washington Post poll in 2023 estimated that one in 20 American adults owns at least one AR-15. In terms of performance, the AR-15 typically has an effective range of around 500 to 600 metres for accurate shooting. It is known for its accuracy, manageable recoil, and adaptability It is mostly used by US civilians, but its design also allows it to be the foundation for many military rifles, including the M16 and M4 carbines, which have seen extensive use by the US military. The AR-15's adaptability, combined with its high rate of fire in its military variants, has also made it a point of controversy in discussions about gun control, particularly in the context of its use in several high-profile mass shootings. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump assassination attempt: Shooter used AR-15 rifle, one of the most popular and deadliest guns in US

US President Joe Biden on Sunday (Jul&nbsp;14) used the formal setting of the White House Oval Office to ask Americans to cool down after the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Biden's use of the Oval Office, for only the third time in his term, holds significance, especially as Republicans openly blame him for the attack on the ex-president.

"We can't allow this violence to be normalised," he said, adding "The political rhetoric in this country has gotten very heated. It's time to cool it down."&nbsp;

"We all have a responsibility to do this."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooter-thomas-crooks-was-a-nice-kid-who-got-bullied-reveal-his-former-classmates-740875">Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was a 'nice kid' who got 'bullied so much' reveal his former classmates</a>

<h2>Hidden messages in Biden's use of the Oval Office</h2>

Biden said that the shooting, which his political rival Trump escaped relatively unscathed, "calls on all of us to take a step back".

For his message to Americans, Biden used the Oval Office, a move that has some subtle significance:

The appearance in the daunting Oval Office allowed the embattled 81-year-old President, who has been facing heat for his age and doubts about his capabilities, to flex the power of incumbency. As the President of the US and as the hopeful for the next presidency, this symbolic image may help satiate some fears, both inside the Democratic Party and outside.

Before this, President Joe Biden used the Oval Office twice:&nbsp;once in October 2023, to seek additional funding for war-torn Ukraine and a second time in June 2023 wrapping up the debt ceiling drama that had Washington and the financial markets on tenterhooks for weeks.

The question that poses itself here is, given that members of the Republican Party have sought to blame him for the attack on Trump, was the Oval Office image a show of his strength as the US President?

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-stage-an-assassination-attempt-or-did-democrats-order-the-hit-conspiracy-theories-suggest-this-740708" target="_blank">Did Trump stage an assassination attempt, or did Democrats order the hit? Conspiracy theories suggest this</a>

<h2>Republicans blame Biden for Trump shooting</h2>

Within hours of the attack on Donald Trump, Biden's re-election campaigning team, as per Reuters, raced to change their campaign. The team was pulling down television ads and suspending political communications, some of which contained verbal attacks against former president Trump.

This comes as Senator J D Vance, one of the people on the list of the Republican's potential running mates, claimed that the Biden campaign "rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination," reports AFP.

Not only Vance, but a growing number of Republicans have sought to pin the blame on Democrats. It must be noted that the shooter, Thomas Crooks, was a registered Republican who had made donations to the left, but the FBI has, as of now, not identified his ideology.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden on Sunday (Jul 14) used the formal setting of the White House Oval Office to ask Americans to cool down after the assassination attempt on Donald Trump.

US President Joe Biden on Sunday (Jul 14) used the formal setting of the White House Oval Office to ask Americans to cool down after the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Biden's use of the Oval Office, for only the third time in his term, holds significance, especially as Republicans openly blame him for the attack on the ex-president. "We can't allow this violence to be normalised," he said, adding "The political rhetoric in this country has gotten very heated. It's time to cool it down." "We all have a responsibility to do this." Also read | Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was a 'nice kid' who got 'bullied so much' reveal his former classmates Hidden messages in Biden's use of the Oval Office Biden said that the shooting, which his political rival Trump escaped relatively unscathed, "calls on all of us to take a step back". For his message to Americans, Biden used the Oval Office, a move that has some subtle significance: The appearance in the daunting Oval Office allowed the embattled 81-year-old President, who has been facing heat for his age and doubts about his capabilities, to flex the power of incumbency. As the President of the US and as the hopeful for the next presidency, this symbolic image may help satiate some fears, both inside the Democratic Party and outside. Before this, President Joe Biden used the Oval Office twice: once in October 2023, to seek additional funding for war-torn Ukraine and a second time in June 2023 wrapping up the debt ceiling drama that had Washington and the financial markets on tenterhooks for weeks. The question that poses itself here is, given that members of the Republican Party have sought to blame him for the attack on Trump, was the Oval Office image a show of his strength as the US President? Also read | Did Trump stage an assassination attempt, or did Democrats order the hit? Conspiracy theories suggest this Republicans blame Biden for Trump shooting Within hours of the attack on Donald Trump, Biden's re-election campaigning team, as per Reuters, raced to change their campaign. The team was pulling down television ads and suspending political communications, some of which contained verbal attacks against former president Trump. This comes as Senator J D Vance, one of the people on the list of the Republican's potential running mates, claimed that the Biden campaign "rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination," reports AFP. Not only Vance, but a growing number of Republicans have sought to pin the blame on Democrats. It must be noted that the shooter, Thomas Crooks, was a registered Republican who had made donations to the left, but the FBI has, as of now, not identified his ideology. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump Shooting - US President Biden uses Oval Office to address Americans: Was it a subtle power flex?

The Republic National Convention (RNC) is set to take place on Monday (Jul 15) at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, less than 48 hours after Donald Trump narrowly survived an assassination attempt. While guns are not allowed inside the venue, individuals will be allowed to carry them outside&nbsp;the convention centre in the outer perimeter.&nbsp;Tennis balls and paintball guns, however, remain a strict no-no.&nbsp;

Wisconsin is an open-carry state and the law&nbsp;allows people to openly carry guns and conceal-carry with a permit inside the 'so-called' perimeter, according to a report in ABC News.&nbsp;Secret Service (SS), responsible for Trump's safety will be controlling the inner "hard perimeter" but given the events of July 13 where a shooter fired from 140 metres out, calls have been growing to implement strict gun control laws.&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;a recent Milwaukee city ordinance&nbsp;bans tennis balls,&nbsp;paintball guns, water bottles, canned food and more in the outer perimeter but leaves out&nbsp;most guns. State law prohibits the city from banning firearms.

"You're barred from possessing tennis balls, but you can have a loaded AR-15.&nbsp;That is the craziest, most absurd, situation I've ever heard in my twenty years of being an elected official,"&nbsp;city council member Bob Bauman said at the time when the proposal was introduced.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-trump-rally-shooting-victim-died-shielding-family-from-gunfire-740876">Watch |&nbsp;US: Trump rally shooting victim died shielding family from gunfire</a>

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<h2>No change in plans: SS</h2>

Despite the threat surrounding the event, the Secret Service&nbsp;said it had made no changes to its security plan for the RNC.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-credits-border-patrol-chart-for-saving-his-life-from-assassination-attempt-740870">Also read |&nbsp;Donald Trump credits 'border patrol chart' for saving his life from assassination attempt</a>

"This event is designated as a national special security event, which is the highest level of security for an event that can be designated by the government," said&nbsp;Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, RNC Coordinator of the Secret Service.&nbsp;

"So, this is a whole of government approach. We've had an extensive planning process to include many organisations," stated Gibson-Cicchino.&nbsp;

The SS chief for RNC added that there had been no plans to extend the perimeter of the convention and that she did not receive any request from&nbsp;Wisconsin Democratic Gov. Tony Evers to ban guns in the outer perimeter.

Trump has already arrived in Milwaukee for the convention amid&nbsp;heightened security fears. He is not expected to speak at RNC until Thursday night but the Pennsylvania incident may have turbocharged his bid for the November presidential elections.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Republic National Convention (RNC) is set to take place on Monday (Jul 15) at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, less than 48 hours after Donald Trump narrowly survived an assassination attempt.

The Republic National Convention (RNC) is set to take place on Monday (Jul 15) at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, less than 48 hours after Donald Trump narrowly survived an assassination attempt. While guns are not allowed inside the venue, individuals will be allowed to carry them outside the convention centre in the outer perimeter. Tennis balls and paintball guns, however, remain a strict no-no. Wisconsin is an open-carry state and the law allows people to openly carry guns and conceal-carry with a permit inside the 'so-called' perimeter, according to a report in ABC News. Secret Service (SS), responsible for Trump's safety will be controlling the inner "hard perimeter" but given the events of July 13 where a shooter fired from 140 metres out, calls have been growing to implement strict gun control laws. However, a recent Milwaukee city ordinance bans tennis balls, paintball guns, water bottles, canned food and more in the outer perimeter but leaves out most guns. State law prohibits the city from banning firearms. "You're barred from possessing tennis balls, but you can have a loaded AR-15. That is the craziest, most absurd, situation I've ever heard in my twenty years of being an elected official," city council member Bob Bauman said at the time when the proposal was introduced. Watch | US: Trump rally shooting victim died shielding family from gunfire × No change in plans: SS Despite the threat surrounding the event, the Secret Service said it had made no changes to its security plan for the RNC. Also read | Donald Trump credits 'border patrol chart' for saving his life from assassination attempt "This event is designated as a national special security event, which is the highest level of security for an event that can be designated by the government," said Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, RNC Coordinator of the Secret Service. "So, this is a whole of government approach. We've had an extensive planning process to include many organisations," stated Gibson-Cicchino. The SS chief for RNC added that there had been no plans to extend the perimeter of the convention and that she did not receive any request from Wisconsin Democratic Gov. Tony Evers to ban guns in the outer perimeter. Trump has already arrived in Milwaukee for the convention amid heightened security fears. He is not expected to speak at RNC until Thursday night but the Pennsylvania incident may have turbocharged his bid for the November presidential elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump assassination attempt: State law allows gun near RNC but tennis balls banned

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