In a shocking turn of events, the investigation into the attempted assassination of Donald Trump on July 13 has revealed that the gunman had a troubling hit list that includes not just the former president but also a member of the British royal family.
Authorities are still piecing together the motives behind Matthew Crooks’ actions, but his search history suggests a broader scope of targets that raises serious alarms.
Crooks, who resides in Pennsylvania, reportedly used various technological devices to research not only political figures but also Catherine, Princess of Wales.
This alarming discovery came to light after law enforcement officials seized Crooks’ laptop and cell phones, leading to a treasure trove of unsettling findings.
Alongside Trump, other notable names such as President Joe Biden, FBI Director Christopher Wray, and images of Catherine were uncovered in his online searches.
What exactly Crooks aimed to achieve with these searches remains unclear.
NPR’s Martin Kast shed light on some of Crooks’ activities, noting that he had also looked up dates for Trump’s public speeches and the Democratic National Convention.
Interestingly, while he searched for “major depressive disorder,” investigators found no evidence linking him to any strong political beliefs or foreign affiliations.
The inclusion of the Princess of Wales on this list is particularly striking, as she stands out as the only international figure among Crooks’ targets.
This situation underscores the heightened vigilance surrounding royal security, especially given Catherine’s current absence from the public eye during the summer months.
The royal family’s safety is a top priority, and substantial resources are allocated to ensure their protection amidst ongoing discussions about their role in contemporary society.
Adding to the tension, King Charles and Queen Camilla experienced their own security scare shortly after the assassination attempt.
While visiting the Channel Islands on July 15, the couple was interrupted by hotel security due to concerns over a potential unauthorized drone nearby.
This incident highlights the pressing need for robust security measures, especially in light of recent threats.
Michael Cole, a former BBC royal correspondent, commented on the Queen’s composed demeanor during the security scare, noting that she handled the situation with grace while recognizing its seriousness.
However, with Catherine’s name now surfacing in connection with Crooks, it seems the royal family may need to reassess their safety protocols.
Royal analyst Rafe Haidelmancou expressed concerns about the implications of this incident on public interactions with the monarchy.
He questioned whether the friendly rapport that allows fans to approach royals for handshakes and flowers might be jeopardized by the current climate of fear and uncertainty.
The ramifications of Crooks’ actions extend beyond the immediate threat posed to Trump and the royal family.
In a politically charged environment, any high-profile individual can become a target, prompting a reevaluation of security measures across the board.