The FBI is investigating a 20-year-old Pennsylvania man, Thomas Matthew Crooks, for attempting to assassinate former President Trump at a rally on July 13, resulting in the death of one supporter and injuries to two others.

To aid in the investigation, the FBI has enlisted Israeli tech firm Cellebrite to access encrypted data on Crooks' phone, though challenges remain with encrypted apps, Fox News reported.

The incident occurred during a rally where former President Trump was present. Crooks is alleged to have targeted Trump, but the attack resulted in the death of Corey Comperatore, 50, and critically injured David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74. Trump was struck in the ear but sustained only minor injuries.

Efforts to Access Encrypted Data

The FBI quickly contracted Cellebrite, an Israeli tech firm, to help access Crooks' phone. Within 24 hours, Cellebrite's software had managed to bypass some of the encryption, allowing investigators to obtain a shocking search history and other evidence.

However, the FBI is still facing significant challenges with encrypted apps used by Crooks. These apps are designed to protect data, making it difficult for investigators to access crucial information.

"I think we've experienced a range of returns because some of the applications he was using online were encrypted in nature," said FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate.

Obtaining Evidence and Legal Processes

Despite the hurdles, the FBI has been able to gain access to some of Crooks' emails. Investigators are also serving legal processes to the providers of Crooks' encrypted messaging services, hoping to gain further insights.

"Once investigators get a search warrant or other legal authorization, Cellebrite provides tools that can help access encrypted apps and hidden data on a suspect's smartphone," explained Cellebrite's Chief Marketer, David Gee.

Investigators have found no evidence that Crooks had any co-conspirators, either foreign or domestic, according to Abbate. The investigation is ongoing, with federal authorities awaiting responses from the companies behind the encrypted apps.

Investigating Social Media Activity

The FBI also examines Crooks' social media activity for additional clues. Abbate said, "The encrypted information remains a wild card, and investigators are keeping an open mind until they get all the results back."

Authorities review different points of view on Crooks' social media accounts to build a comprehensive understanding of his actions and motives.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, the FBI stated, "The FBI does not comment on the tools or techniques it uses and could not confirm or deny Cellebrite's involvement in the Crooks probe."

Prior Threats and Future Plans

Federal authorities were already aware of an Iranian threat on Trump's life before the assassination attempt. This context adds another layer of complexity to the investigation.

Despite the attack, Trump has announced plans to return to Butler for another rally to honor Corey Comperatore, the supporter who lost his life.

The FBI continues to decrypt and analyze the data on Crooks' phone and social media accounts to uncover all potential motives and connections.

Conclusion

The FBI is diligently piecing together the events surrounding the attempted assassination of former President Trump. With the help of Israeli tech firm Cellebrite, investigators have accessed critical data from Thomas Matthew Crooks' phone, although they still face challenges with encrypted apps.

The investigation has revealed no co-conspirators, and authorities are awaiting further information from encrypted messaging providers.

As they continue to examine Crooks' online activities and social media presence, the FBI remains committed to uncovering the full scope of the incident.

Former President Trump plans to honor the fallen supporter with another rally in Butler, demonstrating resilience in the face of the attack.