The FBI has responded to claims made by conservative commentator Tucker Carlson about Thomas Crooks, who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump. Carlson alleged that the FBI deceived the public regarding Crooks’ online presence, specifically stating that the agency claimed he had “no online footprint.”
FBI’s Denial of Claims
The FBI Rapid Response account on X (formerly Twitter) refuted Carlson’s assertion, stating, “This FBI has never said Thomas Crooks had no online footprint. Ever.” The comments came after Carlson promised to reveal evidence that would contradict the FBI’s claims during an investigation.
Background on Thomas Crooks
Thomas Crooks, 20, was involved in an attempted assassination of Donald Trump on July 13, 2024. During the incident, Crooks fired eight shots from a rooftop using an AR-15-style rifle, tragically killing one individual and injuring two others. Trump narrowly escaped without serious injury, suffering only a graze to his ear.
Crooks was shot and killed by a U.S. Secret Service Counter Sniper shortly after the attack. The incident raised significant security concerns, leading to the resignation of Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle. An independent panel called for “fundamental reform” within the agency following the event.
Tucker Carlson’s Evidence
On November 13, Carlson released a video on X, purportedly featuring material from Crooks’ Google Drive. This 35-minute video included footage of Crooks engaging with firearms, suggesting a more substantial online presence than previously reported.
- Carlson identified various digital accounts linked to Crooks, including those on platforms like Snapchat, Venmo, and Google Play.
- He asserted that these accounts indicated a significant online activity level, countering the FBI’s claims.
Response from the FBI
The FBI stated that it had not labeled Crooks as lacking an online presence. Carlson expressed confusion over the agency’s request for account verification, stating that the authenticity of the accounts seemed apparent.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 13, 2024 | Thomas Crooks attempts to assassinate Donald Trump. |
| November 13, 2025 | Tucker Carlson claims FBI lied about Crooks’ online presence. |
| November 14, 2025 | FBI Rapid Response denies Carlson’s allegations. |
The controversy surrounding Crooks and the FBI’s statements highlights ongoing discussions about security and online presence in the context of high-profile incidents. As more details emerge, the implications of this case continue to evolve, reflecting deeper issues within the agencies and public trust.
