A newly released video by Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley reveals the chaos that unfolded after the shooting of ex-President Donald Trump on July 13, raising concerns about security failures.
The footage and records that have emerged highlight problematic communication between local and federal law enforcement during the incident, as the Western Journal reports.
The video, made public by Grassley, documents the actions of Secret Service agents and Beaver County Emergency Services immediately after the former president was shot. The footage includes scenes of the crime, showing Thomas Matthew Crooks, the assailant, lying dead amid a blood trail.
Grassley's office has scrutinized the video, identifying significant delays and lapses in communication among various law enforcement agencies. The senator expressed unease over the slow response in identifying and disabling a suspected detonator beside Crooks.
Two explosive devices were eventually located in the attacker's vehicle. Analysis revealed that Crooks could not have detonated them from the rooftop where he carried out the attack. Law enforcement officials were also seen discussing the need to use a drone to examine and ensure the security of a nearby water tower.
The complexity of the situation was further evidenced by the fact that the Secret Service had a drone operator assigned to the event. FBI Director Christopher Wray later confirmed that Crooks had flown his own drone near the venue about two hours before the assassination attempt.
Grassley released the footage and associated records on July 23, advocating for transparency regarding the event. He criticized federal agencies, particularly shedding light on the Secret Service's transparency issues in effectively communicating their security inadequacies to the public.
The release of the footage and records has intensified demands for accountability. Grassley has openly criticized the federal agencies involved for what he described as a “catastrophic security failure.”
In an official letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Grassley requested the detailed operational security plan for the rally held on the day of the incident. The senator's proactive approach seeks to instill clarity and consequences for the perceived law enforcement mishandling.
Adding to the disclosure, the FBI confirmed on the Friday following the assassination attempt that Trump had indeed been struck by a bullet. This announcement ended widespread rumors and debates regarding what had wounded the former president.
In response to the FBI's statement, Donald Trump acknowledged the agency's clarification on his social media platform, Truth Social. "I assume that’s the best apology that we’ll get from Director Wray, but it is fully accepted!” Trump posted, refuting doubts about the nature of his injury.
This latest revelation has stirred public and political discourse, with many calling for increased scrutiny on security protocols for high-profile individuals. The complexity of dealing with such threats and the efficiency of the response mechanisms are under vigorous examination.
Grassley remains firm on his stand for public transparency. “This assassination attempt is a matter of significant public interest, and the public’s business ought to be public. I’m releasing these records as part of my efforts to get answers and hold agencies accountable,” he said, emphasizing the importance of full disclosure.
