In July 2024, an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump occurred during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. A 20-year-old man, Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired eight rounds from an AR-15-style rifle from a rooftop, striking Trump’s ear and killing one rally attendee while critically injuring two others. Trump, 79 at the time, was quickly taken offstage by security after sustaining a minor gunshot wound.

Trump later confirmed the injury on social media, describing a bullet grazing the upper part of his right ear. His team released a note from a former White House physician stating the bullet narrowly missed entering his skull, and that Trump was recovering well. However, skepticism arose as some critics reviewed photos of Trump’s ear before and after the attack, claiming no visible injury or change occurred, fueling conspiracy theories that the shooting was staged.

FBI Director Christopher Wray testified about the incident, noting uncertainty over whether Trump was hit by a bullet or shrapnel. He said it was possible the bullet that grazed Trump’s ear may have ended up elsewhere, though all cartridge casings had been recovered. The FBI reiterated the seriousness of the attack and continues to investigate, including examining bullet fragments.

Online commentators questioned the lack of visible injury and demanded proof, with some calling Trump’s story a “scam.” The FBI emphasized their ongoing investigation and dedication to uncovering details about the shooter and motives, but uncertainty remains in the public discourse.

The incident remains controversial, with conspiracy theorists challenging official accounts and demanding more evidence to verify the true extent of Trump’s injury.