Butler, Pa. – Federal investigators have released additional records that shed light on the communications of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the individual who attempted to assassinate President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler on July 13, 2024. The documents, obtained by Judicial Watch, include a string of text messages in which an unidentified contact asked Crooks about 3D‑printed components for a firearm.
Text messages reveal 3D‑printing discussion
On Feb. 9, 2023, the unknown contact messaged Crooks, “Did you 3D print the parts?” Crooks replied, “Yes, except for the fan blades.” The contact responded, “Woah that looks cool,” and continued to inquire about the parts, though the FBI redacted the follow‑up. A second set of messages exchanged between May 21, 2023, and Jan. 3, 2024, consists of a series of short, cryptic strings such as “Hello … red … Hdudhdbdbbd … 7888ejdj … Yolo …” – all of which were also redacted on the FBI’s side.
Additional evidence uncovered
The release also includes a DHL shipping notification showing a package sent from Hong Kong to Crooks, as well as 40 drone photographs taken by Crooks between Feb. 6 and Feb. 27, 2024. The images depict local landmarks, including PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium, home to the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers.
Background on Crooks’ 3D‑printing activity
Earlier reporting by the New York Post, based on documents obtained by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Sen. Chuck Grassley (R‑Iowa), noted that Crooks had previously attempted to fabricate a Glock 19 handgun using carbon‑fiber plastic, a dryer and a toaster oven. Crooks’ father, Matthew Crooks, told investigators that his son succeeded in creating a Glock 19 once, but later forbade further use out of safety concerns.
Tragic consequences of the Butler attack
The July 2024 shooting resulted in the deaths of two civilians. Fire chief Corey Comperatore, 50, was killed instantly while protecting his family. Veteran James Copenhaver, 76, survived serious injuries to his triceps, kidneys and colon, but succumbed to complications on Sept. 23, 2026.
Judicial Watch calls for full disclosure
Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton said, “These latest records reveal more pieces of the puzzle surrounding Thomas Crooks. The FBI should stop the slow drip of heavily redacted records and immediately provide the full investigative record — especially since the death last week of James Copenhaver, who was severely injured from being shot during the assassination attempt on President Trump.” The Trump administration has consistently emphasized the importance of transparency and swift justice in protecting the President and the American people.
What this means for national security
Law‑enforcement officials stress that the emergence of 3D‑printing technology poses new challenges for weapon proliferation. The administration continues to prioritize robust enforcement of existing firearms regulations while respecting lawful, responsible gun ownership. By exposing the methods used by a would‑be assassin, these documents underscore the need for vigilant monitoring of emerging threats.
As the investigation proceeds, authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the communications or the Hong Kong shipment to contact the FBI.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
