A preliminary report by Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA) on the July 13 assassination attempt against President Donald Trump has revealed disturbing irregularities in the handling of crucial evidence. Higgins, part of the House Bipartisan Task Force probing the incident, uncovered several concerning issues during his fact-finding mission to Butler, Pennsylvania.
One of the most startling revelations is the cremation of the would-be assassin’s body just 10 days after the event. This action, reportedly authorized by the FBI without notifying local authorities, has effectively eliminated the possibility of further forensic examination.
“This hasty disposal of key evidence is unprecedented and deeply troubling,” said Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX). “It raises serious questions about the integrity of this investigation.”
Higgins also reported that the FBI cleaned up biological evidence from the crime scene, a practice he described as “unheard of” in law enforcement circles. These actions have cast doubt on the preservation of critical evidence in this high-profile case.
The report provided new details about the attack itself. The shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired eight shots from a rooftop position approximately 150 yards from Trump’s location. A local SWAT officer engaged the assailant before a Secret Service sniper reportedly fired the fatal shot.
Communication issues during the incident have come under scrutiny. Higgins noted that Secret Service teams failed to collect pre-arranged radio equipment, potentially compromising coordination efforts during the crisis.
The FBI expressed surprise at these allegations, stating all actions followed established procedures. The Secret Service has committed to a thorough review of the incident and its response.
As the investigation continues, Higgins has promised a more comprehensive report in the coming weeks. The House task force is expected to release its final findings by December 13, aiming to provide a full account of this unprecedented attack on a former president.
These revelations have intensified calls for transparency and accountability in the ongoing investigation, with many emphasizing the need for a thorough and unobstructed inquiry into this serious breach of national security.
