In a shocking turn of events, a photo has emerged showing the would-be assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks, seemingly scoping out a spot to shoot at former President Donald Trump. The image, captured by a local police counter-sniper officer, was taken nearly one hour before the attack during Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The photo reveals Crooks crawling on the ground, sporting long brown hair and glasses, while wearing a gray T-shirt representing the popular YouTube gun channel, Demolition Ranch. Although it remains unclear whether Crooks had a gun at that time, the photo raised suspicions about his intentions.

Law enforcement sources disclosed that the sniper, a member of the Beaver County Emergency Services Unit, searched the grounds for Crooks after sending the picture, but he had already moved from the initial location. However, around 5:45 p.m., the same officer spotted Crooks again, this time on the roof. Another picture was taken, and the incident was reported to the command center.

At precisely 6:11 p.m., Crooks fired the first shot at Trump from a distance of approximately 130 yards, grazing his ear and tragically killing one rally attendee. Two others sustained serious injuries during the attack. It is worth noting that Trump took the stage while Crooks was still on the ground and had not yet climbed on the roof of the building, according to local TV reports.

Just minutes before Crooks opened fire, a local Butler Township police officer was swiftly deployed to the factory's roof and confronted the gunman. The officer's timely intervention prevented further casualties.

The FBI plans to interview the members of the Emergency Services Unit, who were present at the scene, to gather more information about the incident. Additionally, photos have surfaced, revealing Crooks' cellphone and a remote transmitter found next to his lifeless body on the manufacturing plant's rooftop. The transmitter is believed to have been connected to an explosive device found in Crooks' car, suggesting a possible distraction plan during the shooting.

It is known that Crooks raised suspicions when he passed through the security screening area earlier that day with a rangefinder in his possession. Investigators theorize that he went to his car to retrieve the stolen AR-style rifle, which he allegedly took from his father.

Seconds before Crooks aimed at Trump, a local police officer bravely interrupted the shooter, who pointed the rifle at him. The officer swiftly dodged the imminent threat by dropping and falling eight feet to the ground. Trump escaped with only a graze to his right ear, but Corey Comperatore, a heroic firefighter and father, tragically lost his life while shielding his family from the gunfire.

Two other rally attendees sustained injuries, and authorities have yet to uncover a motive for the shooting. The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement agencies are determined to piece together all the details surrounding this disturbing and violent act.