In a shocking turn of events, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks has been identified as the gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Law enforcement sources have revealed that Crooks opened fire at the Butler Farm Show fairgrounds, just minutes after being labeled a "threat" against the 45th president.

During the rally, Crooks managed to graze Trump's ear with a bullet, tragically killing 50-year-old retired fire chief Corey Comperatore and injuring two other attendees. The motive behind the attempted assassination remains unclear; however, investigators have disclosed that Crooks had been actively searching for information on Trump's appearances as well as the Democratic National Convention.

FBI officials have also noted that Crooks' search history indicated a broad interest in high-profile individuals and celebrities, irrespective of their political affiliations. The assailant's car was reportedly discovered nearby with explosives inside, raising concerns about potential additional threats.

Following the incident, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the nation, condemning the attack as a "heinous, horrible, and cowardly act." Both congressional and independent investigations have been initiated, with House and Senate lawmakers being briefed by FBI and Secret Service officials.

However, serious questions have been raised about the lapse in security measures surrounding the event. Local police authorities stationed inside the AGR International Inc. factory building, where the rally took place, reportedly missed Crooks setting up a sniper's perch on the building's roof, just 130 yards away and with a clear line of sight on Trump.

Moreover, neighboring residents have expressed surprise at the lack of communication from law enforcement regarding setting up additional security measures before the campaign event. Photos from the area depict gates into the facility being only zip-tied shut, allowing the shooter easy access.

While there have been mounting calls for Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to resign due to the security lapses, agency spokesman Anthony Guglielmi has stated that there are no intentions for her to step down. He emphasized the importance of continuity of operations during critical incidents and highlighted Cheatle's commitment to transparency and the ongoing investigation.

Former law enforcement officials have expressed outrage at Cheatle's explanation for not securing the roof of the manufacturing plant, citing safety concerns. However, Cheatle maintains that the decision was made to secure the building from the inside.

The investigation into the attempted assassination is ongoing, and authorities are working in collaboration with Congress, the Inspector General, and conducting internal and independent reviews. FBI Director Christopher Wray is scheduled to testify in a public hearing with the committee on July 24, shedding further light on the incident and the security protocols surrounding it.