Authorities in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, provided updates on Monday regarding the investigation into Thomas Matthew Crooks, the individual who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump. Despite intensive efforts, including accessing Crooks' phone, conducting searches of his car and family home, and recovering over a dozen firearms from the residence, law enforcement officials have yet to uncover a clear motive for the shooting that occurred at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The FBI characterized the investigation as being in its early stages, highlighting the challenge of understanding the motivations of a seemingly elusive individual like Crooks, who at 20 years old has left minimal digital and social media footprints. Gregg McCrary, a former FBI profiler, noted the difficulty in profiling individuals like Crooks who operate under the radar without overtly expressing their intentions publicly.

Senior law enforcement officials disclosed additional details stemming from the ongoing investigation:

1. Weapons Found: A search of the Crooks family home in Bethel Park uncovered more than a dozen guns, underscoring concerns about the shooter's access to firearms.

2. Father's Concerns: Before the shooting, Matthew Crooks, Thomas' father, contacted the police to report that his son and an AR rifle were missing, prompting authorities to respond to their home.

3. Ammunition Investigation: Investigators are examining whether the ammunition used in the shooting was recently purchased and how it was acquired, focusing on local stores like Allegheny Arms and Gun Works in Bethel Park.

Despite efforts by FBI technical specialists to analyze Crooks' phone and other electronic devices, no clear motive has emerged from their preliminary examinations. This lack of digital trail and insight into Crooks' personal life has compounded the mystery surrounding his actions.

Public records indicate that Crooks was a registered Republican who once contributed to a progressive voting initiative, a detail that contrasts with the dearth of information from those who knew him personally. Even acquaintances and former classmates have provided little insight into his background or motivations, describing him as reserved and not extensively involved in school activities or social circles.

Mark Crooks, Thomas' uncle, expressed shock and condemnation over his nephew's actions, emphasizing that the family had minimal contact with him in recent years. He lamented the tragedy of the shooting, expressing sympathy for the victims while struggling to comprehend what might have driven Thomas to commit such a violent act.

Neighbors near the Crooks residence, who were briefly evacuated during the investigation, described a quiet community where Thomas was known to occasionally walk through the neighborhood. Despite these brief interactions, residents like Kelly Little, who was questioned by FBI agents, indicated they had limited personal contact with him.

The investigation continues to focus on Thomas Matthew Crooks as the sole perpetrator of the assassination attempt, with authorities emphasizing that there is no indication of accomplices or broader conspiratorial links. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this shocking event, law enforcement remains dedicated to unraveling the complexities of Crooks' motivations, recognizing the profound impact on both local residents and the broader public.