FBI Director Christopher Wray testified before the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, providing new details about the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally.

The FBI Wray lead is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident, which has so far uncovered the use of a drone and the presence of explosive devices, by the assailant, according to the Washington Examiner.

Drone Flew Over Rally Site Before Attack

The shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, employed a drone in the minutes leading up to the attack. The drone was operated between 3:50 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., hovering around 200 yards from the stage where Trump was speaking. Investigators believe Crooks may have live-streamed footage from the drone for approximately 11 minutes.

In his testimony, Wray mentioned, "We think, but we do not know, so again, this is one of these things that's qualified because of our ongoing review, that he was livestreaming, you know, viewing the footage."

The drone, along with two explosive devices found in Crooks's car and another recovered from his home, has been seized by the FBI as part of the ongoing investigation. The FBI has not yet determined a clear motive for Crooks’s actions.

Assassination Attempt Causes Casualties

The attack left one person dead and two others seriously injured. Former President Trump was grazed by a bullet on the side of his head, sustaining a minor injury to his ear. Wray emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation, stating, "The FBI's mandate is focused on the shooter and all things related to his attack."

Lawmakers expressed their concerns over security failures during the rally. Wray redirected questions regarding security measures to the Secret Service, which is also under scrutiny.

Investigations into Security Concerns

The Department of Homeland Security's inspector general and an independent panel are conducting separate investigations into the Secret Service's actions during the event. Wray assured that these inquiries would address the security lapses that occurred.

"There's a whole lot of work underway and still a lot of work to do, and our understanding of what happened and why will continue to evolve, but we're going to leave no stone unturned," Wray stated.

He further noted the absence of any manifestos or relevant information obtained from interviews and social media, making it challenging to ascertain Crooks's motive.

Focus on Shooter's Digital Footprints

The FBI has issued warrants to access information relating to Crooks's digital accounts. This step aims to uncover any potential connections or influences that could shed light on his actions.

"I think it's fair to say that we do not yet have a clear picture of his motive," Wray remarked, highlighting the complexities of the investigation.

Additionally, Wray pointed out that Crooks had conducted a significant number of searches on public figures in general, adding another layer of ambiguity to the case.

Wray's Extended Testimony

Wray's testimony before the House Judiciary Committee was part of the FBI's annual congressional oversight. His appearance extended into the afternoon as lawmakers pressed him for answers regarding the attack and the broader implications for public safety at high-profile events.

Throughout the hearing, Wray maintained a cautious tone, reiterating the need for a thorough and methodical investigation. "Frankly, unusually so for an ongoing investigation," he commented on the level of detail divulged during the testimony.

As the investigation progresses, the FBI will continue to examine all aspects of the incident, aiming to uncover the full scope of Crooks's plans and any potential accomplices or influences.

The FBI Director's testimony highlighted the considerable efforts underway to understand the events that led to this tragic incident and to enhance security protocols for future events.

Conclusion

The attempted assassination of former President Trump at a rally has prompted a multi-faceted investigation involving the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security, and independent panels.

With one death, two serious injuries, and minor injuries to Trump, the focus remains on uncovering Crooks’s motive and understanding the security failures that allowed the attack.

The use of a drone and the recovery of explosive devices indicate a level of premeditation, and the FBI is leaving no stone unturned in its pursuit of the truth.