FBI Provides Comprehensive Update on Butler, Pennsylvania, Assassination Attempt Investigation

In a detailed briefing on the investigation into the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, the FBI outlined recent developments and clarified key aspects of the case. Robert Wells, Executive Assistant Director of the FBI’s National Security Branch, led the statement, marking the third media briefing since the July 13 attack in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Wells underscored the FBI’s dedication to transparency throughout the investigation. "This extraordinarily tragic set of circumstances is of national importance," Wells said. "We are determined to ensure that the facts of the case are appropriately shared with Congress, the media, and the American people." He emphasized that the FBI remains committed to providing timely updates and working collaboratively with the bipartisan Congressional task force and independent review panels.

Wells also praised the efforts of the FBI's Pittsburgh Field Office, noting the tireless work of agents, analysts, and staff. "Their dedication has been instrumental," he stated, highlighting their work in pursuing leads, analyzing data, and supporting victims. He also acknowledged the valuable assistance from state and local partners, including the Pennsylvania State Police and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Update from the Pittsburgh Field Office

Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek provided a detailed update on the investigation. "The Pittsburgh office continues to lead the investigation through the tireless efforts of our agents, intelligence analysts, and professional staff," Rojek said. He also thanked personnel from other FBI offices and divisions for their support and recognized the partnership with local law enforcement.

Motive and Co-Conspirators

Rojek addressed key aspects of the investigation, including the search for motive and potential co-conspirators. Despite extensive analysis of the suspect's online activity, no definitive motive has been established. Similarly, there is no credible evidence to suggest that the suspect conspired with others or acted under the direction of a foreign entity.

Scope of the Investigation

Rojek clarified the scope of the FBI's role in the investigation. "Our responsibility is to investigate the actions of the subject, not the security measures or responsibilities of the Secret Service or local law enforcement," he explained. To date, the FBI has conducted nearly 1,000 interviews, served numerous search warrants, and analyzed hundreds of hours of video footage.

Details of Online Searches and Explosives

Rojek provided insights into the subject’s online searches leading up to the attack, including searches for campaign events and details related to the rally in Butler. The suspect also conducted multiple searches related to explosives, including terms such as "detonating chord" and "how to make a bomb from fertilizer." The FBI’s Lab confirmed that the components used in the explosive devices found were legal and readily available.

Rifle and Crime Scene

The FBI Laboratory Division tested the subject’s rifle, which was found to be fully operational. All shell casings on the roof matched the weapon. Rojek addressed concerns about the release of the crime scene, stating that the FBI followed established procedures and released the sites only after thorough processing.

Clarifications on Reporting

Rojek clarified several points about the investigation, including the level of encryption on the subject’s email accounts and the timely release of the crime scenes. He also addressed the handling of the subject’s body, explaining that the Butler County Coroner’s Office, followed by the Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner, conducted the autopsy and determined the release of the body to the family.

Autopsy and Toxicology Results

The autopsy report confirmed that the subject was pronounced dead from a single gunshot wound. The toxicology report showed negative results for alcohol and drugs.

Timeline and Investigation Progress

Rojek detailed the timeline of the subject’s actions on the day of the attack, including his movement on the AGR roof and the timing of the shooting. The investigation continues to focus on refining the timeline and pursuing all leads.

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The FBI remains committed to uncovering the full details of the attack and providing answers to the American people. "We believe the subject engaged in detailed attack planning well in advance of the campaign rally," Rojek concluded. "We continue to pursue all investigative leads to determine any possible links to co-conspirators."

The FBI’s ongoing efforts reflect their dedication to resolving this high-profile case and ensuring transparency throughout the investigative process.