FBI, DHS Warn of Possible ‘Follow-On or Retaliatory’ Attacks after Trump Assassination Attempt

Alert Issued to Law Enforcement Across the Country

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have issued a nationwide bulletin to law enforcement warning of the potential for “follow-on or retaliatory” attacks in the frightening aftermath of the recent attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. The communication urged local, state, and federal law enforcement, as well as their partners, to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity, particularly in light of some online communities encouraging or referencing violent acts in response to the assassination attempt.

Event Took Place at Election Campaign Rally

The near-fatal incident occurred during Trump’s speech at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania. A 20-year-old Pennsylvania man, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, allegedly fired from a nearby rooftop, with one bullet grazing Trump’s ear. Authorities have yet to determine the exact motive of the shooter but acknowledge that the climate of political division could amplify the threat environment. The FBI and DHS advise that “lone actors” or small extremist groups might continue to recognize political rallies as “attractive targets.”

Prior Politically Motivated Disruptions Noted

Even before this assassination attempt, federal authorities had noted politically motivated plots and attacks directed towards government officials and candidates. Numerous disruptive tactics have been employed against election-related targets, including hoax threats, swatting, and letters containing harmless white powder sent to officials. The bulletin emphasized that such events bolster the assessment of a heightened threat level towards election-related targets.

Details of the Assassination Attempt

The bulletin also provided preliminary information about actions taken by the suspect before the shooting. Reports indicate that Crooks had purchased 50 rounds of ammunition from a firearms dealership in Pennsylvania on the day of the attack. Furthermore, he had received several packages, some possibly containing hazardous material, months before the attack. His vehicle, found near the rally, contained two improvised explosive devices, and another was discovered at his home.

Response and Statement from Homeland Security

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas voiced stern condemnation of the assassination attempt, calling such violent acts “unacceptable in our democracy.” The Secretary highlighted the currently heightened threat environment, with ceaseless threats against both Trump and President Joe Biden. Mayorkas also revealed that security measures at the currently ongoing Republican National Convention have been significantly enhanced.

Trends in Violence Against Public Officials

A parallel report released by the Joint Regional Intelligence Center showcased concerning statistics about the frequency of violence against public officials. According to that report, charges against individuals threatening public officials have steadily risen since 2017, with increases seen particularly between 2017 and 2022. Despite this, communicated threats are considered a “poor predictor” of actual violence, suggesting that individuals close to potential offenders may be in the best position to identify violent intentions.