FBI Provides Update on Investigation into Attempted Assassination of Former President Trump

Acting Director of the U.S. Secret Service, Ronald L. Rowe, Jr. and Deputy Director of the FBI Paul Abbate | Umit Bektas/Reuters

At a recent press briefing, Deputy Director Paul Abbate and Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek provided an update on the FBI's investigation into the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump on July 13 in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Key Points from the Briefing:

1. Investigation Status: The FBI's investigation is ongoing, with teams working around the clock. The primary goals are to determine the shooter’s motive and to ascertain if any co-conspirators were involved. Currently, there is no evidence of additional conspirators.

2. Public Cooperation: The FBI has conducted over 450 interviews and received more than 2,100 tips from the public. These tips, along with evidence from electronic devices and social media, are crucial for understanding the shooter’s motives and actions.

3. Details of the Attack: The shooter, who used a legally purchased AR-15 rifle, had also prepared explosive devices. The devices found were either non-functional or had their receivers turned off, preventing detonation. The shooter’s planning included a drone flight near the rally site and significant firearm-related purchases.

4. Misreported Information: Clarifications were made regarding the shooter’s use of a ladder and bicycle. The ladder was not used in the attack, and the bicycle did not belong to the shooter.

5. Victim Support: The FBI has expressed condolences to the victims, including the late firefighter Corey Comperatore, and has been working closely with local law enforcement and other partners.

6. Next Steps: The investigation will continue as the FBI seeks to uncover the full scope of the attack and its underlying motives. The agency remains committed to transparency and updating the public as more information becomes available.

The FBI's ongoing work aims to provide a complete understanding of the attack and ensure that all relevant facts are brought to light. No information was shared about what exactly struck Donald Trump's ear or details about any injuries.

Full briefing:

Remarks by Deputy Director Paul Abbate

Remarks by FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek