Bethel Park High School has come forward to clarify several misconceptions about Thomas Matthew Crooks, the individual who attempted to shoot former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally. The school’s statement disputes several claims that had emerged following the shooting incident, which resulted in the death of firefighter Corey Comperatore and injuries to Trump and two others.
The school has categorically denied earlier reports that Crooks tried out for the school’s rifle team, faced bullying, or made threats against the school. According to the school, there is no record of Crooks ever officially trying out for the rifle team. While he might have informally attended a practice session, the school asserts that there is no formal documentation to support this.
The high school’s response contradicts previous accounts from two of Crooks’ former classmates, who alleged that he was rejected from the rifle team due to poor shooting skills and inappropriate behavior. They also claimed that Crooks was a victim of relentless bullying. However, the school has dismissed these claims, emphasizing that Crooks excelled academically and had no recorded disciplinary issues.
In addition, Bethel Park High School refuted allegations that Crooks had made threats of violence against the school. They clarified that an unrelated incident involving threats by another student was thoroughly investigated and resolved in 2019, with no connection to Crooks.
The school’s statement aims to set the record straight amid the fallout from Crooks’ actions, which concluded with his death at the hands of Secret Service snipers. The statement underscores that Bethel Park High School maintains detailed and accurate records of student activities, academic performance, and disciplinary actions, all of which reflect Crooks’ positive standing during his time there.