Thomas Matthew Crooks allegedly exchanged text messages about 3D-printed parts with an unidentified contact more than a year before his attempted assassination of Donald Trump, newly released FBI records show.
The messages, dated 9 February 2023, reportedly included a question from the other person: “Did you 3D print the parts?” Crooks replied: “Yes, except for the fan blades.”
The exchange began after Crooks sent an item or image that was completely redacted from the records. The unknown contact responded: “woah that looks cool.”
The FBI described the other person as an “unknown contact” and said the messages had been “deemed pertinent” to its investigation into the attempted assassination.
The records were obtained by Judicial Watch. They do not identify what was printed or explain the significance of the parts discussed in the messages.
Interviews with Crooks’ father, obtained separately, said his son had once made a handgun using a 3D printer.
Crooks, 20, opened fire at a 2024 rally attended by Trump. A bullet appeared to graze the former president’s ear, while members of the audience were also hit, including one person who died immediately.
Crooks was killed by snipers, and the cost of his cremation was covered by an anonymous donor.
