The attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, has led to a detailed analysis of the events that narrowly avoided a historic tragedy. Israeli Special Operations veteran Aaron Cohen shared his insights on how a slight head movement saved Trump’s life.
Trump was speaking at the rally when Thomas Matthew Crooks, positioned on a rooftop 130 yards away, fired multiple shots. One bullet grazed Trump’s ear, causing significant bleeding, while other shots killed Corey Comperatore, a retired fire chief, and injured several attendees.
Cohen explained to Fox News’ Trace Gallagher that Trump’s minor head turn was crucial. “God must have been watching down on the president,” Cohen stated, emphasizing that the shot was dangerously close to being fatal. He noted that snipers are trained to aim for the cerebral cortex at the brain stem, which would incapacitate a target instantly. The fact that Trump moved his head slightly at the moment the shot was fired made the difference.
“Had the president’s head been straight, and if that round had gone into the ear, it would have been lights out,” Cohen said. The shooter’s position and the clear line of sight he had to Trump have raised serious questions about the security measures in place at the rally.
The Secret Service, particularly under Director Kimberly Cheatle, has come under fire for what many see as a significant security lapse. Reports suggest that Trump had requested increased security but was denied. Critics argue that the agency’s focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives may have detracted from its core mission of protecting high-profile individuals.
As the FBI continues its investigation into Crooks’ background and motives, the near-tragic event has prompted calls for a reassessment of security protocols. Elon Musk, who endorsed Trump following the attack, has demanded Cheatle’s resignation, citing either incompetence or deliberate negligence.
Cohen’s analysis highlights how a seemingly insignificant movement can alter the course of history. The incident underscores the need for vigilant security measures and the importance of addressing potential threats swiftly to prevent future occurrences.
