Former classmates describe Trump Shooter Thomas Crooks as inexperienced in Rifle team, known for crass humor

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, was previously rejected from his high school's rifle team. According to his former classmates, Crooks struggled with shooting skills and exhibited inappropriate behavior.

School shooting incident

Crooks attended Bethel Park High School and attempted to join the rifle team several years ago. His classmates, Jameson Murphy and another student, recalled an incident where Crooks performed poorly during tryouts. Using .22-caliber rifles, Crooks missed his targets by significant margins, once even hitting the wall opposite his lane.

Murphy described Crooks as such a poor shot that he failed to make the team after just one day of tryouts. Additionally, Crooks' behavior, including making inappropriate jokes, raised concerns among his peers and the coach. The coach, experienced with training Navy marksmen, recognized Crooks' lack of suitability for the team.

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Crooks was remembered by classmates as a loner who faced relentless bullying at school. His social interactions and behavior, especially given the context of firearms in a school setting, were closely scrutinized. According to one classmate, Crooks made remarks that were deemed inappropriate, further contributing to his isolation.

Assassination attempt and aftermath

During a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, Crooks fired shots at Donald Trump, injuring him and causing a fatality and injuries to others before being fatally shot by Secret Service agents. The incident prompted a review of security measures by President Joe Biden, highlighting concerns over public safety and the accessibility of firearms.

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The details surrounding Thomas Crooks' failed attempt to join the school rifle team and subsequent involvement in the Trump rally shooting underscore the complexities of gun access and behavioral scrutiny in educational environments. Crooks' actions have reignited discussions on firearm safety and the identification of individuals at risk of dangerous behavior within communities.