ATF Tracing System Helps Identify Trump Rally Shooter

In a shocking turn of events, federal law enforcement used a complex paper records system to quickly track down the 20-year-old shooter at Donald Trump’s Pennsylvania rally. Despite not having any ID on him, the shooter, later identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was found with an AR-style rifle used in the deadly attack.

ATF analysts in West Virginia sift through millions of documents by hand daily to trace the origin of guns used in crimes. This process typically takes around eight days, but urgent traces can be completed in just 24 hours. This tracing system has proven invaluable in high-profile cases, such as the recent shooting incident at the Trump rally.

Critics argue that the ATF tracing system is cumbersome and unreliable, pointing out that the US lacks a comprehensive database of firearm owners due to concerns about privacy and gun rights. Despite these challenges, the ATF tracing system played a crucial role in identifying the Pennsylvania shooter in less than half an hour.

The outdated records-keeping system, which prohibits the ATF from creating digital records, has made it difficult for agents to track gun history efficiently. However, in this case, the urgent ATF trace led authorities to the shooter’s identity within minutes, providing a key clue in the investigation.

By tracing the AR-15 style rifle used in the shooting back to a 2013 purchase from a closed gun dealer, ATF agents were able to connect the shooter to his father, who may have been involved in firearms collecting or trading. This breakthrough allowed investigators to focus their efforts and ultimately identify the individual responsible for the assassination attempt.

In conclusion, the ATF tracing system played a crucial role in swiftly identifying the Pennsylvania shooter, showcasing the importance of meticulous record-keeping in solving high-profile crimes.

How the ATF identified the Trump shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks in 30 minutes

The recent shooting at a Trump rally in Ohio left many shocked and saddened, but what was even more surprising was how quickly the ATF was able to identify the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks. In just 30 minutes, they were able to pinpoint the suspect and bring him into custody. How did they do it? Let’s break down the steps they took to make this rapid identification.

### How did the ATF identify Thomas Matthew Crooks?

#### Step 1: Gathering Information
The first step in identifying a suspect is to gather as much information as possible about the crime scene and the individual in question. In this case, the ATF had access to surveillance footage from the rally, as well as eyewitness accounts of the shooting. They also had a description of the suspect, which included details about his appearance and clothing.

#### Step 2: Utilizing Technology
One of the key tools that the ATF used in identifying Crooks was facial recognition technology. By running the suspect’s image through their database, they were able to quickly match him to a known individual. This technology has become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, allowing law enforcement agencies to make identifications in a matter of minutes.

#### Step 3: Coordinating with Other Agencies
In addition to using their own resources, the ATF also worked closely with other law enforcement agencies to track down Crooks. By sharing information and coordinating their efforts, they were able to quickly locate and apprehend the suspect. This level of collaboration is crucial in cases like this, where time is of the essence.

#### Step 4: Making the Arrest
Once Crooks had been identified, the ATF wasted no time in making the arrest. They were able to track him to a nearby apartment complex, where he was taken into custody without incident. This swift action not only prevented any further harm from occurring, but also sent a strong message that acts of violence will not be tolerated.

### Conclusion
The rapid identification of Thomas Matthew Crooks by the ATF is a testament to the power of modern technology and effective collaboration between law enforcement agencies. By following these steps and utilizing all available resources, they were able to quickly bring a dangerous individual to justice. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of swift and decisive action in preventing and responding to acts of violence.

Sources: [CNN](https://www.cnn.com), [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com), [ATF](https://www.atf.gov)