Thomas Matthew Crooks’ former school district has refuted numerous allegations circulating about the educational experience of the 20-year-old suspected shooter in the recent incident involving Donald Trump.
During a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Crooks was fatally shot by a Secret Service sniper after attempting to target Trump from a nearby rooftop. His gunfire grazed Trump’s ear and tragically claimed the life of local firefighter Corey Comperatore, while two others sustained serious injuries.
Though his motive and political views remain unclear, Bethel Park School District released a statement on Saturday debunking claims that Crooks was a victim of bullying, as previously suggested by his peers.
“There’s a misconception that Thomas Crooks was bullied in school, leading to the attack on former President Trump,” stated the school district.
“Based on our records, Mr. Crooks excelled academically, had good attendance, and was not involved in any disciplinary incidents related to bullying or threats.”
The district also clarified rumors that Crooks was rejected from the high school rifle team, with claims from classmates that he performed poorly and was asked not to return for tryouts.
“Thomas Crooks never actually tried out for the school’s rifle team, and there’s no record of him attempting to do so,” stated the school district. “The coach doesn’t recall him, although there’s a chance he casually attended a practice, took a shot, and didn’t continue, but there’s no official record of this.”
Furthermore, the district dispelled a report from British newspaper The Daily Mail suggesting that Crooks had made threats to “shoot up” the school, as alleged by classmate Vincent Taormina in 2019.
“Back in 2019, a different student made threatening remarks directed at specific school administrators,” the district clarified. “It was thoroughly investigated and handled promptly, but it was unrelated to Thomas Crooks.”
In regards to Crooks’ mental well-being post-graduation, the district declined to speculate, stating that he was known as a quiet, bright student who generally had good relationships with teachers and peers.