Sean Grayson, a sheriff's deputy with a troubling history, fatally shot Sonya Massey, an unarmed black woman, in her kitchen after she reported a suspected prowler.
Daily Mail reported that Grayson has been charged with first-degree murder and other offenses following the incident.
Thirty-year-old Sean Grayson was recommended for high-stress decision-making training by the Logan County Sheriff's Office in Illinois after he was involved in a reckless high-speed chase. During this chase, Grayson drove at an alarming speed of 110mph and struck a deer despite his supervisor having called off the pursuit.
Grayson resigned from the Logan County Sheriff's Office in April 2023. He quickly joined the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office in May 2023, a move that has since raised questions about the vetting process at the new department.
On July 6, Sonya Massey, 36, called the police to report a prowler in Springfield, Illinois. Grayson and another Sangamon County deputy responded to the call. After an extensive 30-minute search, the deputies entered Massey's home and saw a pot of boiling water on the stove.
Grayson asked Massey to shut off the stove. Witnesses and bodycam footage reveal that he then threatened to shoot her. As Massey ducked and apologized, Grayson fired three shots, hitting her in the face below her left eye and causing fatal injuries.
Massey suffered a skull fracture, a perforated carotid artery, and a brain bleed. Additionally, she had minor blunt force injuries to her right leg, which further indicates a physical altercation before the shooting.
Following the incident, Grayson was removed from the force. He now faces charges including first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct. Held in the county jail, Grayson has entered a not-guilty plea and is currently awaiting trial.
Grayson's troubled past includes a misconduct discharge from the Army, where he served from May 2014 to February 2016. He had DUI charges in August 2015 and July 2016 and worked for six different police agencies over the span of four years, demonstrating a pattern of instability.
Civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump is representing Massey's family. Crump has publicly questioned why Grayson was ever hired by the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office, given his extensive history of questionable conduct in both the military and law enforcement.
Logan County Sheriff Jack Campbell stressed that Grayson's actions were entirely unacceptable. “It was clear that the deputy did not act as trained or in accordance with our standards,” Sheriff Campbell stated, emphasizing that Grayson's behavior bore no resemblance to the values or training of their office.
In a July 22 follow-up statement, Sheriff Campbell reiterated his disapproval, explaining that Grayson had other possible courses of action that he should have taken. "His actions were inexcusable and do not reflect the values or training of our office. He will now face judgment by the criminal justice system and will never again work in law enforcement. Ms. Massey needlessly lost her life, and her family deserves answers. I trust the legal process will provide them," he concluded.
Deputy Sean Grayson fatally shot unarmed Sonya Massey in her kitchen after she reported a suspected prowler. Grayson, who had a history of reckless behavior and was recommended for specialized training, has been charged with first-degree murder, among other offenses. Civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump is advocating for Massey's family, while Logan County Sheriff Jack Campbell condemns Grayson's actions as unreflective of proper police conduct.
Brazilian swimmer Ana Carolina Vieira has been expelled from the Olympic Games for a night out in Paris without official permission.
According to Daily Mail, Ana Carolina Vieira left the Olympic Village with her boyfriend, Gabriel Santos, leading to her expulsion after a confrontation with the Brazilian Olympic Committee.
On July 26, 22-year-old Ana Carolina Vieira, a swimmer representing Brazil, exited the Olympic Village without authorization. She was accompanied by her boyfriend, fellow swimmer Gabriel Santos. The duo decided to enjoy the Parisian nightlife, a decision that would have severe repercussions for Vieira.
The pair ventured out after their teams were eliminated from their respective events. Vieira's unauthorized outing with Santos, following Brazil's elimination from the 4x100m freestyle relay, was seen as a breach of discipline by the Brazilian Olympic Committee. Upon discovery, Vieira's reaction compounded the situation.
The Brazilian Confederation of Aquatic Sports (CBDA) described Vieira's response to the committee's decisions as disrespectful and aggressively challenging. This response led to an immediate and harsh ruling by the committee.
Vieira was expelled and swiftly sent back to Brazil. The CBDA stated emphatically that they could not accept such behavior from their athletes, emphasizing the seriousness of representing Brazil in the Olympics.
Gabriel Santos, who was ousted in the men's 4x100 freestyle heats, also faced disciplinary action. However, unlike Vieira, Santos issued an apology for his actions. This apology led to him receiving only a warning, allowing him to remain in the Olympic Village.
According to the CBDA, Santos's cooperative attitude during the confrontation played a significant role in the leniency shown towards him. Despite this incident, Santos continues his journey in his third Olympic appearance, having first competed in the Rio Games in 2016.
Vieira's Olympic debut was in Tokyo, and she has built an impressive following on social media with over 26,000 Instagram followers. However, her actions this year overshadowed her budding Olympic career, ending her participation in the Paris Games.
Both Vieira and Santos are affiliated with the esteemed Esporte Clube Pinheiros, a well-known Brazilian athletics club. The club has not yet released an official statement regarding the incident, but the CBDA has made their position on the actions of the two athletes clear.
Gustavo Otsuka, a senior member of the Brazilian delegation, emphasized the serious nature of their duties. Otsuka remarked, “We’re here working for Brazil, for the 200 million taxpayers who support us. We can’t play around here.” This statement underscores the gravity with which the committee views breaches of discipline.
Otsuka's remarks highlight the expectations placed on athletes representing Brazil at the highest level of competition. He expressed clear disapproval of Vieira's 'completely inappropriate position' in her reaction to being reprimanded.
The expulsion of Ana Carolina Vieira sends a strong message to all athletes about the importance of adhering to rules and maintaining respect for the delegation's decisions. While Gabriel Santos has been allowed to continue, the incident will likely remain a cautionary tale for future competitors. The repercussions for Vieira are immediate and significant, as being sent home during the peak of her career will impact her professional reputation. The CBDA's swift action serves as an enforcement of discipline and a pivotal moment for Vieira’s career.
Daily Mail reported that President Joe Biden has unveiled a sweeping plan to reform the United States Supreme Court.
Biden's proposal comes in response to recent controversies involving justices and high-profile rulings that have disrupted longstanding legal precedents. Key elements include judicial term limits, a binding code of ethics, and a constitutional amendment restricting presidential immunity.
President Biden advocates for term limits for Supreme Court justices in his plan, which is a first in the nation's history. He also urges the adoption of a binding ethics code, aiming to restore public trust eroded by recent scandals.
The president referenced a "crisis of confidence" within the democratic framework, exacerbated by certain court decisions impacting individual liberties. Biden's changes are seen as necessary interventions to re-establish the credibility of judicial processes and uphold foundational democratic principles.
Biden emphasized that no individual, including those in the highest offices or on the Supreme Court, is above the law. The critical reforms target both presidential power and judicial accountability.
Although the White House has highlighted the importance of these reforms, the likelihood of Congressional approval appears slim given the deep political divisions. With 99 days until Election Day, the proposal also serves as a strategic move to pivot voter attention to judicial integrity.
Senator Elizabeth Warren praised the initiative as a compelling reason to support Democratic candidates in the upcoming elections. On the other hand, Senator Lindsey Graham accused Democrats of undermining the conservative majority that now shapes the court's direction.
Vice President Kamala Harris described the current election as a choice between maintaining freedom and descending into chaos, aligning the Democratic ticket's success with the proposed judicial reforms.
The Supreme Court's ethical controversies have garnered increasing attention, particularly involving Justice Clarence Thomas and Justice Samuel Alito. Recently, allegations surfaced about Justice Alito’s refusal to recuse himself from cases pertaining to former President Donald Trump.
Biden's plan includes a constitutional amendment aimed specifically at curtailing presidential immunity, directly impacting the legal landscape for future presidencies. This proposition stands as a response to the perceived overreach of executive power, an issue spotlighted by Trump's presidency.
Although the Supreme Court adopted an ethics code in November following disclosures about undisclosed travel expenses, critics argue that the voluntary guidelines lack effective enforcement mechanisms.
Trump has publicly decried the proposed amendments, viewing them as politically motivated attacks intended to influence the presidential election. He believes these efforts threaten to erode the foundational principles of justice and judicial independence.
President Joe Biden has proposed significant reforms to the Supreme Court, including term limits, a binding code of conduct for justices, and a constitutional amendment to limit presidential immunity. Citing recent ethics scandals and controversial rulings, Biden aims to restore trust in democratic institutions. Despite the slim chances of approval from a divided Congress, Biden's proposal is intended to rally voter support ahead of the election.
The chilling series of events leading up to an attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump has exposed significant security failures.
According to Daily Mail, the Secret Service countersnipers had identified gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks 90 minutes before he fired. He was first spotted sitting on a picnic table 50 yards from the exit at 4:26 p.m.
Countersnipers exchanged a string of messages about Crooks’ location and movements. Several photos of Crooks were taken as he moved closer to the rally stage.
Despite repeated warnings, Crooks was never approached or questioned. He was seen on the roof of the American Glass Research building shortly before the shooting.
Crooks fired eight shots from an AR-style rifle within 30 minutes of being reported by the countersnipers. Trump narrowly escaped harm with only a grazed ear.
Retired volunteer fire chief Corey Comperatore was fatally shot during the attack. Many others were injured in the chaos.
Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, who resigned following the incident on July 13, admitted, "The buck stops with me." Cheatle has faced criticism for not positioning agents on the roof and acknowledged failure to act on multiple warnings about a suspicious individual.
FBI Director Christopher Wray revealed Crooks' disturbing online activity. Crooks had researched the distance from which Lee Harvey Oswald had shot John F. Kennedy and had flown a drone near the stage two hours before his attack.
Crooks’ father contacted law enforcement on the day of the shooting, validating concerns about his behavior. Crooks had assured his employer he would return to work on Sunday.
Former President Trump has publicly defended the brave lady from the Secret Service who shielded him during the attack. Trump highlighted the agent's courage amidst the online criticism she faced after the foiled assassination attempt.
Crooks utilized mechanical equipment and vertical piping to scale the roof, evading a security breach that Secret Service personnel were supposed to secure. The countersnipers' warning about Crooks went unheeded, culminating in the attack.
Authorities have not confirmed the motive behind Crooks' actions. Nonetheless, the incident has triggered a significant review of security protocols for protecting public figures.
The investigation continues, raising concerns about the protection afforded to public figures at high-profile events. Crooks' actions and the corresponding response have underscored the delicate balance of maintaining vigilance and ensuring public safety. While Cheatle has taken responsibility for the breach, the broader implications for the Secret Service and local law enforcement protocols remain. This incident may prompt a reevaluation of policies to prevent such lapses.
According to Breitbart News, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) addressed Vice President Kamala Harris's future plans regarding immigration reform during an interview on CNN's "State of the Union".
Warren emphasized that Harris would collaborate with Congress to establish a path to citizenship while defending the administration's handling of the border crisis.
Speaking to CNN host Jake Tapper, Warren outlined a vision for comprehensive immigration reform. In this vision, she underscored Vice President Harris's anticipated leadership in forming a partnership with Congress to develop a pathway to citizenship. This commitment aligns with Harris's continued defense of the Biden-Harris administration's approach to border management.
Jake Tapper questioned Warren about President Biden's directive for Vice President Harris to address the fundamental causes of mass migration from Central American countries. Tapper indicated voter discontent with the administration's border strategy and posed a critical question regarding the Democrats' stance.
Senator Warren responded by emphasizing the importance of adhering to the facts. She highlighted that current border crossing figures are lower than those during the final year of the Trump administration, which underscores the administration's efforts in managing border-related challenges.
Warren further acknowledged that the ultimate solution to the border crisis necessitates action from Congress. She stressed the need for increased resources at the border and support for states and cities that receive migrants. She argued that establishing a pathway to citizenship is an essential component of comprehensive immigration reform.
Warren articulated confidence in Vice President Harris's ability to collaborate with Congress on these key issues. She expressed belief that Harris would not only address the immediate needs at the border but also work towards long-term solutions that include creating a citizenship pathway.
The Senator also used the opportunity to critique former President Donald Trump's actions regarding border negotiations. Warren accused Trump of seeking to create chaos at the border for political gain, particularly in the context of the November 5 election campaign.
According to Warren, Trump disrupted a bipartisan border deal that both Democrats and Republicans had negotiated. Two days before the scheduled vote, Trump reportedly encouraged Republicans to withdraw their support, undermining the agreement.
Warren reiterated that resolving the border issue requires cooperation from Congress. She called for legislative tools to provide more border resources and support states and municipalities. Additionally, she firmly advocated for a pathway to citizenship as part of comprehensive immigration reform.
Throughout the interview, Warren maintained a steadfast stance on the importance of facts and bipartisan solutions. She highlighted the lower border crossing numbers as evidence of the administration's effective management compared to previous years.
Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) stated on CNN's “State of the Union” that President Kamala Harris will collaborate with Congress to create a pathway to citizenship. Anchor Jake Tapper highlighted concerns over the Biden-Harris administration's handling of the border crisis, questioning if Democrats are doubling down on a vulnerability.
Warren emphasized that border crossings are lower than during Trump's last year and stressed the need for comprehensive immigration reform, including increased resources and a pathway to citizenship. She also criticized Trump for undermining a bipartisan border deal for political gain.
Fox 2 Detroit morning anchor Amy Andrews has recently shared the heartbreaking reason behind her absence from the airwaves was because of severe depression and anxiety.
Daily Mail reported that Andrews, who is well-known for her advocacy on mental health issues, revealed she has temporarily left her post to focus on treatment and recovery.
On Sunday, Amy Andrews publicly announced her condition and the need to step back from her duties at Fox 2 Detroit. Andrews expressed her sincere commitment to addressing her mental health struggles in order to return to her viewers in good health.
In an emotional post, Andrews admitted that her severe depression and anxiety had resurfaced, compelling her to take a necessary break. “I’ve stepped away from the anchor desk temporarily to battle with all I have,” she shared, articulating her determination to regain stability and return to the morning show.
This isn't the first time Andrews has faced such challenges. On May 18, she had announced a brief hiatus to address health issues but had returned to the air after what she hoped had been enough time to heal.
The Detroit community is familiar with her candid discussions about mental health. She has consistently utilized her platform to advocate for mental health awareness.
In June 2022, Andrews managed to come back to work after enduring similar battles. Her history of openness regarding her personal mental health struggles has already inspired many of her viewers.
Going back to 2019, Amy Andrews participated in a charity walk at Detroit's riverfront in support of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). This foundation aims to raise awareness and support for those struggling with mental health issues.
Andrews has drawn strength from her interactions with the audience and community throughout her journey. Speaking about her colleague Jessica Starr, who tragically died by suicide in 2018, Andrews urged everyone to be kinder and more understanding as people often battle unseen struggles.
In 2018, she took to social media to encourage open conversations about mental health. “You can have a #RealConvo with me today and any day if you’re feeling bad or have questions,” Andrews posted, underlining her commitment to being approachable and supportive.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Michigan Chapter has recognized Andrews for her relentless advocacy. On July 19, they extended their gratitude to her, stating, “Thank you, Amy, for being such a fierce mental health warrior."
The response to Andrews' latest announcement has been overwhelmingly supportive. Viewers, colleagues, and mental health advocates have rallied around her, offering words of encouragement and understanding.
Andrews has not shied away from sharing her vulnerabilities. "We never know what others are dealing with," she wrote, emphasizing the need for compassion. She also thanked Fox 2 Detroit for their understanding and for giving her the much-needed time away to focus on her well-being.
In conclusion, Amy Andrews' announcement illuminates the ongoing struggles of mental health, further reinforcing her role as a prominent advocate. Her sense of duty to her well-being and her viewers is commendable. The Detroit community and beyond continue to support Andrews, anxiously awaiting her return to the morning news.
Vice President Kamala Harris defended President Joe Biden's mental fitness to continue leading the nation despite scrutiny over his public appearances.
According to Fox News, Harris emphasized his ability to serve effectively, while Biden endorsed her as the presidential nominee for the next election.
Vice President Kamala Harris asserted that President Joe Biden remains capable of fulfilling his duties despite growing concerns stemming from his public gaffes and perceived cognitive decline. Harris pointed to their frequent interactions over the past year, which include meetings, lunches, events, and travel, as evidence of Biden's ongoing engagement.
Harris and Biden have engaged in over 80 documented encounters between July 18, 2023, and July 17, 2024. These included 25 meetings, eight lunches, 46 events, and two instances of traveling together. Not all activities were publicly scheduled, highlighting their close coordination on national security matters, such as Situation Room briefings.
In a recent debate against former President Donald Trump, Biden’s performance sparked apprehension about his ability to handle another term. However, Harris quickly came to his defense, praising his determination and substantive approach throughout his presidency.
The release of a report by Special Counsel Robert Hur added fuel to the fire by portraying Biden's cognitive faculties as "significantly limited." Harris criticized this report as politically motivated, inaccurate, and inappropriate. She underscored Biden's mental acuity, recalling his decisive response to the terrorist attacks on Israel by Hamas on October 7, 2023.
“We're not just talking about a slow start,” Harris emphasized, “but a strong finish. Joe Biden's ability to lead is evident from his actions on national and global stages.” She expressed her confidence in his authority while meeting various leaders, contrasting it with the negative portrayal in Hur's report.
In November, Harris addressed comments from former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy regarding Biden's confusion during debt negotiations. She clarified that Biden's age is not a limitation but a testament to his vast experience and wise judgment.
“I spend significant time with the President,” Harris remarked. “Whether in the Oval Office, the Situation Room, or other meetings, Biden remains authoritative and composed, making critical decisions that benefit the American people.”
On July 21, Biden officially announced that he would not seek a second term. Subsequently, he endorsed Harris as the Democratic nominee for the upcoming presidential election. This move highlights his confidence in Harris’s leadership and her dedicated service as Vice President.
“The president's actions were proactive and decisive,” Harris stated. She highlighted Biden's continuous coordination with U.S. national security leaders and global allies, demonstrating his effective leadership during the crisis.
“Only one person sits behind the Resolute Desk,” Harris asserted. “And that person is Joe Biden—a leader who has consistently shown strength, determination, and cohesive decision-making.”
Vice President Kamala Harris consistently defended President Joe Biden's mental fitness and capabilities amid growing concerns and criticism. Despite Biden's decision not to pursue a second term, his endorsement of Harris signifies continuity and confidence in her leadership to steer the nation forward. Harris's detailed recounting of their various engagements over the year bolsters her argument that Biden remains a strong and effective leader.
Michelle Obama, backed by a star-studded group of celebrities, has endorsed Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential race.
Fox Business reported that despite high-profile support, experts argue that Democrats face challenges in energizing disengaged voters.
Michelle Obama, the former first lady, and a host of celebrities have endorsed Kamala Harris’s 2024 presidential bid. Kerry Washington, Megan Rapinoe, Steph Curry, Shonda Rhimes, Chris Paul, Brettman Rock, and others have also joined this high-profile endorsement.
Former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris last week, just days after President Joe Biden withdrew from the race. Biden ended his re-election campaign following a poor performance in a debate against Trump, which led to pressure from within the Democratic Party for a change.
The endorsement from Michelle Obama was publicized in a political advertisement released by the nonprofit When We All Vote. In the ad, she stressed the importance of voting on issues such as reproductive rights, the environment, and the economy, calling for action just 100 days before Election Day.
However, experts like Patrice Onwuka, director for the center of economic opportunity at the Independent Women’s Forum, remain skeptical about the impact of these endorsements.
Onwuka points out a significant issue for the Democrats: voter apathy. “There's an apathy problem that Democrats have to fight right now. They have to get all of those disenchanted and disengaged voters to actually care,” she said. Onwuka warns that simply replacing one candidate with another might not bring the desired effect.
They've removed one candidate that was very unpopular, and they've placed someone else as a placeholder in that role. That's not enough. That's not going to be enough to move the needle.
The endorsement from the Obamas aims to energize voters, but whether it will be enough to address the core issues remains a topic for debate.
Harris's campaign has been proactive, marking 100 days until the election with a "Weekend of Action." According to reports, her campaign raised $200 million in its first week, signaling strong financial support but not necessarily widespread voter enthusiasm.
Onwuka highlighted the skepticism among some voters, stating, “There are a lot of disengaged voters who say: we voted for the Democratic Party, for the left, for so long, and yet our communities are still struggling, our children are still in failing schools, and our communities are no safer." These are critical issues that celebrity endorsements may not be able to address comprehensively.
For some voters, past experiences create doubts about celebrity-driven political campaigns:
So, star-studded celebrity endorsements, they may carry some weight with a few folks, but for the folks who are thinking, ‘You know what? The celebrities lied to me before; they lied to me about Joe Biden for the past four years, they're going to lie again. I'm going to consider something different.
While Michelle Obama and numerous celebrities have endorsed Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential election, there are concerns about the effectiveness of this strategy in tackling voter apathy. Despite the high-profile support and a surge in campaign funding, experts argue that Democrats need to do more to engage disenchanted voters who feel neglected by previous administrations.
Following Joe Biden's announcement ending his reelection bid, Harris's potential vice-presidential pick has become a topic of discussion.
According to an ABC News/Ipsos poll, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona is leading the field of vice-presidential contenders for Harris.
Daily Mail reported that with 22 percent of voters viewing him favorably and only 12 percent unfavorably, Kelly stands out among potential running mates.
Harris has experienced an eight-point increase in favorability, now standing at 43 percent. This uptick comes after a strategic and energetic campaign season, focusing on solidifying her position within the Democratic Party and expanding her reach among voters.
While voters weigh their options for Harris’s vice president, Pete Buttigieg, the Secretary of Transportation, is widely known but polarizing. Buttigieg is viewed favorably by 29 percent and unfavorably by 25 percent of the electorate.
Among other contenders, Governors Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania and Andy Beshear of Kentucky each have positive public perceptions, with 17 percent and 13 percent favorability, respectively. Their unfavorable ratings remain low, making them viable options.
According to Republican strategist Matt Wolking, Senator Kelly is perceived as a formidable candidate among the running mates. This perception aligns with voters’ sentiments, which suggest a specific affinity for Kelly over his peers.
However, Governor Gavin Newsom of California has struggled with his image, as his unfavorable rating stands at 33 percent, surpassing his favorable rating of 21 percent. Governors Tim Walz of Minnesota, Roy Cooper of North Carolina, and JB Pritzker of Illinois remain under the radar with low name recognition and favorability.
Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan, reflects a balanced public opinion. She is viewed favorably by 20 percent and negatively by 21 percent, indicating a split voter base.
Harris has gained significant popularity among independent voters, with her favorability rising from 28 percent to 44 percent. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump has experienced a drop in favorability, decreasing from 40 percent to 36 percent overall. His favorability has declined sharply from 35 percent to 27 percent among independent voters.
In a display of enthusiasm, Harris garnered more excitement among voters than Trump, with 48 percent expressing enthusiasm for her candidacy compared to Trump's 39 percent.
Biden's decision not to seek re-election, influenced by internal party pressures, has made Harris the unchallenged Democratic candidate for the upcoming election. This has set the stage for a face-off between Harris and Trump in November. Public support for Harris is strong, with 52 percent of the surveyed population favoring her candidacy and 86 percent of Democrats showing their support.
Kamala Harris's recent favorability surge and her new status as the Democratic nominee set the stage for a competitive race against Trump. With a prominent rise in independent support and growing enthusiasm, her choice of running mate, particularly Senator Mark Kelly, holds significant strategic importance. As the campaign progresses, Harris’s ability to address the lingering questions about Biden's cognitive health and maintain the momentum will be crucial for her success.
According to Fox News, law enforcement officials had identified Thomas Matthew Crooks as a potential threat 90 minutes before he fired upon attendees at former President Donald Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania.
Despite multiple warnings, Crooks managed to position himself on a building and open fire, causing one death and several injuries.
Text messages from law enforcement reveal that Thomas Matthew Crooks was marked as suspicious well ahead of the shooting incident. Officers from the Beaver County Emergency Services Unit (ESU) identified Crooks using a range finder but did not confront him directly.
In a group chat of Beaver ESU officers, the first warning came at 4:36 p.m., when an officer noted that someone had parked near their vehicle. "Someone followed our lead and snuck in," an officer warned.
Officers did not approach Crooks but continued to observe his movements. At 5:10 p.m., they noted he had moved to another location near the American Glass International (AGR) building. An officer documented this by taking a picture of Crooks leaning against the building.
Crooks was described as having greasy shoulder-length hair and wearing a gray t-shirt. He was seen holding a range finder and looking towards the stage where Trump was scheduled to speak.
Despite repeated observations, officers eventually lost sight of Crooks. A chain of text messages shows increasing concern among the officers about Crooks’ suspicious activity. They suggested alerting the command and requested a uniformed officer to check it out.
At 6:11 p.m., Crooks began his assault from atop the AGR building. He opened fire on the crowd, resulting in the death of 50-year-old Corey Comperatore, who was protecting his family from the gunshots.
Former President Donald Trump was grazed by a bullet on his ear. Three rally-goers were injured: David Dutch and James Copenhaver sustained wounds but survived.
During the attack, it was a counter-sniper who finally neutralized Crooks, preventing further bloodshed. The sniper managed to take Crooks down shortly after he initiated gunfire.
Victims of the shooting received prompt medical attention. James Copenhaver was discharged from the hospital on Friday, while David Dutch was released on Wednesday, July 24.
The tragic death of Corey Comperatore and the injuries sustained by others highlight the urgent need for reevaluations in security protocols. Authorities are urged to learn and adapt to prevent future incidents of this nature.
Text message records indicate that alerts about Crooks were issued at several points leading up to the shooting. Officers were aware of the potential threat Crooks posed but did not intervene directly prior to the attack. Questions are mounting regarding the protocols and responses of the law enforcement officers present. Concerns surround why Crooks was not intercepted before he could position himself on the building and fire into the crowd.