Timeline of events following the attack on Trump: What we know and what questions remain.

In the span of two days, a tragic shooting incident unfolded at a Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. The attack resulted in injuries to Trump himself and claimed the life of Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old individual. Additionally, two others, David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74, were injured but are currently in stable condition. The aftermath of the shooting has spurred an FBI investigation and calls for increased transparency regarding the security protocols that were breached, allowing the shooter to come dangerously close to the former president.

Let’s delve into a chronological breakdown of the events surrounding this harrowing incident.

Saturday, July 13: Trump Shooting and its Aftermath

As the clock struck 6 p.m. ET, Trump took the stage at a rally near Butler, Pa., only to be met with the terrifying sound of gunshots reverberating through the venue. Images captured the moment when Trump instinctively clutched his ear and neck area before collapsing to the ground. Secret Service and law enforcement officials swiftly sprang into action, shielding Trump from further harm as gunshots continued to ring out. Amidst the chaos, Trump was safely escorted offstage to his motorcade, giving a defiant fist pump to the crowd with blood trickling down his ear and face. Fortunately, his campaign later reassured the public that he had sustained minor injuries and was reportedly ‘fine.’

The violent episode prompted an immediate and comprehensive investigation by the FBI, plunging the nation into a state of shock and outrage. Political leaders worldwide, including former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush, as well as Trump’s own former vice president, Mike Pence, unequivocally denounced the attack.

Amidst the chaos, the FBI confirmed the grim news of Corey Comperatore’s death and the critical condition of two other attendees. The lifeless body of the male shooter was discovered on a nearby rooftop, carrying an AR-style rifle sans any identification. Subsequent investigations revealed the assailant’s identity as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pa.

During a brief yet poignant conversation that evening, President Biden spoke with Trump, conveying respect and solidarity in the face of tragedy. Speaker Mike Johnson made a firm commitment to initiate a thorough inquiry into the shooting incident, vowing to shed light on the lapses in security that facilitated this heinous act.

Trump himself took to social media platform Truth Social, recounting the chilling moment when a bullet pierced his right ear, causing considerable bleeding and chaos. Initial investigations hinted at a potential assassination attempt, with Crooks, the shooter, having no prior criminal record.

Throughout the night and into the wee hours of the morning, the FBI meticulously combed through Crooks’s vehicle and residence, uncovering suspicious devices that were promptly rendered safe for further forensic examination at FBI laboratories.

Sunday, July 14: Unveiling New Details of the Shooting

With the dust settling on the previous day’s chaos, fresh details emerged, shedding light on the chilling moments leading up to the attack. Witnesses reported spotting the gunman on a rooftop mere minutes before he unleashed havoc, prompting questions about potential security oversights that could have averted the tragedy.

Moreover, local law enforcement officials made valiant yet unsuccessful attempts to confront the shooter before strategically retreating, underscoring the sheer chaos and urgency of the situation.

In a bid to unravel the layers of security lapses, Republican lawmakers announced plans to convene hearings with representatives from the Secret Service, FBI, and Department of Homeland Security. The victims’ names were released, affirming the loss of Corey Comperatore and the ongoing recovery of David Dutch and James Copenhaver.

President Biden, cognizant of the urgent need for accountability and review, ordered an independent scrutiny of the security arrangements at the rally and a comprehensive review of protocols leading up to the upcoming Republican National Convention.

As political leaders from across the spectrum clamored for answers and justice, the FBI escalated its investigation, classifying the incident as a potential act of domestic terrorism. Former first lady Melania Trump didn’t mince words when branding Crooks as a “monster” in a scathing statement.

Meanwhile, revelations regarding the gun used in the attack surfaced, indicating that it was legally purchased by Crooks’s father nearly a decade prior. Striking a delicate balance between security measures and individual rights, authorities implemented a ban on guns in the ‘hard zone’ of the RNC while allowing them in the ‘soft zone’ within specified security perimeters.

In a bid to quell rising tensions and rally the nation in solidarity, President Biden delivered a poignant address, emphatically urging restraint in making assumptions about the shooter’s motives or affiliations.

A resilient Trump, despite his physical wounds, forged ahead with his plans to attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, demonstrating unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.

Monday, July 15: Unraveling the Questions as RNC Commences

As a new week dawned, Kimberly Cheatle, the Director of the Secret Service, affirmed the agency’s full cooperation in an independent review of the incident, underscoring a commitment to transparency and accountability.

Moreover, Cheatle disclosed that the Secret Service had meticulously revisited and fortified its safety protocols ahead of the Republican National Convention, prioritizing stringent measures to avert any potential security breaches.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas didn’t mince words, denouncing the lapses in security that culminated in the tragic events of the preceding weekend, labeling it a gross “failure” in ensuring the safety of public figures.

Providing a glimmer of hope amid the gloom, the FBI announced ongoing investigations into Crooks’s phone for vital clues regarding his motives. Additionally, the agency extended its support to the grieving families of the victims, navigating a delicate path to justice and closure.

As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence, one thing remains abundantly clear: the imperative of unity, resilience, and unwavering resolve in the face of adversity. The events of those fateful days have not just scarred individuals but also propelled the nation into introspection, demanding a comprehensive overhaul of security protocols and a resolute commitment to upholding the sanctity of public discourse and democratic values.