Secret Service failed to detectfailed to detect drone threat during 2024 Trump shooting
The Secret Service failed to prevent the 2024 shooting attempt on former President Trump at a Butler, Pennsylvania campaign event due to missed drone detection and unmonitored radio calls.
An inspector general's report released in July 2026 highlights these security lapses, underscoring the need for improved training and communication protocols to protect political leaders.
USA Today
USA Today reports that the Secret Service failed to detect a drone flight used by the assailant because operators were under-trained and equipment malfunctioned.
The Straits Times
The Straits Times states the agency was unaware of radio transmissions because it lacked a joint communications room with local law enforcement receiving search reports.
- The 2024 shooting attempt occurred during a bright summer day with over 10,000 attendees at the outdoor fairground.
- Trump survived the attack but suffered a minor injury to his ear from a bullet fragment.
- Thomas Crooks was captured alive and later charged with multiple federal crimes including attempted assassination.
