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19h ago

FBI Files Detail 'Bob Dole' Alias, Rapid Cremation and Rifle Transfer in Butler Rally Attack

The newly disclosed interview notes add operational and personal details to a probe that found the shooter acted alone, renewing congressional scrutiny of security and post‑attack handling.

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BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Donald Trump supporters film during a campaign rally in front of the buildings from which the shooter, Matthew Thomas Crooks fired at the former president in an assassination attempt during a campaign rally at Butler Farm Show Inc. on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump was escorted away by the Secret Service with an injury to his ear. One attendee at the rally on July 13 was killed and two others severely injured. (Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images)

Overview

  • On July 13, 2024, Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire at a Trump campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, grazing President Trump, killing one attendee, wounding others, and was shot dead by a Secret Service sniper.
  • Records given to Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley show Crooks ordered parts and tools under the delivery name "Bob Dole," used multiple digital accounts and privacy tools, and tried to limit his online footprint.
  • FBI interview notes record that Crooks’ father said he handed his son a Panther Arms A‑15 rifle the morning of the rally while believing Thomas was going to a shooting range, and that Thomas had built a Glock‑style pistol with a 3D printer.
  • A separate note in the files says an "anonymous donor" paid for Crooks’ cremation about 10 days after the attack, a rapid release that lawmakers say restricted further forensic review.
  • The FBI’s official finding remains that Crooks acted alone with no foreign nexus, but the new disclosures have prompted President Trump to demand consequences and have intensified congressional oversight while motive remains unresolved.