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Thomas Matthew Crooks used 'Bob Dole' alias before Trump shooting

Fox News • September 15, 2026 • general

Key Points:

Thomas Matthew Crooks, who attempted to assassinate President Donald Trump in July 2024, killed a bystander and seriously wounded two others before being shot and killed himself; he used the alias "Bob Dole" to receive suspicious packages prior to the attack.
Crooks, 20, had no close friends during his teenage years and exhibited a change in behavior during high school, becoming quieter and struggling to communicate with teachers despite being a high-achieving student.
His father, a mental health professional, observed Crooks talking to himself but did not identify clear signs of mental illness; Crooks also considered joining the military at one point but it was unclear how serious he was.
After the shooting, Crooks was cremated with the expenses covered by an anonymous donor, and his family has been deeply affected, with his father retiring early and his mother taking leave from work.
Federal documents and interviews reveal that Crooks' motive remains unclear, and the investigation continues into the circumstances surrounding the assassination attempt at the Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

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