Thomas Crooks attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump by hiding a DPMS AR-15 rifle behind an air conditioning unit on the roof of the AGR Building in Butler, Pennsylvania. There are two theories as to how Crooks got the rifle onto the roof unnoticed. One theory suggests he hid the rifle near the air conditioning unit he used to climb up, while the other theory suggests he carried it in a backpack along with a golf rangefinder.

According to federal law enforcement sources, concealing the rifle in a backpack would have required significant disassembly and reassembly, making it more likely that Crooks hid the rifle behind the AC unit. Fox News reports indicated that Crooks purchased a ladder and ammunition the morning of the rally, but no ladder was found at the scene. It is believed that Crooks grabbed the rifle, climbed onto the AC unit, and then onto the roof.

Additionally, it was revealed that a sniper team from the Butler Township Emergency Services Unit was inside the building and was conducting surveillance during the event. While the team was monitoring the area for suspicious activity, Crooks was able to sneak onto the roof unnoticed.

The Secret Service counter sniper who took out Crooks needed only one shot to neutralize the threat, Fox News reported. The investigation into the attempted assassination continues, and has shed light on Crooks’ online search history, which included terms related to depression, Trump, Biden and the DNC.

The Secret Service Sniper’s swift action prevented a potentially catastrophic incident, underscoring the importance of vigilance and security measures during such high-profile events. As more details emerge from the investigation, the public will gain insight into the meticulous planning and execution of the failed assassination attempt.