During the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a minor head movement was the difference between life and death. Israeli Special Operations veteran Aaron Cohen explained how Trump’s slight turn saved him from a fatal shot.
The shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired multiple rounds from a rooftop 130 yards away. One bullet grazed Trump’s ear, causing him to bleed heavily. Secret Service agents quickly escorted him to safety. Crooks’ attack also resulted in the death of Corey Comperatore, a retired fire chief who shielded his family, and injured others.
Cohen, speaking to Fox News’ Trace Gallagher, emphasized that the former president’s head turn was critical. “God must have been watching down on the president,” Cohen said. He detailed that snipers typically aim for the cerebral cortex at the brain stem to incapacitate their target immediately. “Had the president’s head been straight, and if that round had gone into the ear, it would have been lights out,” Cohen explained.
The distance from which Crooks fired is relatively short for a trained shooter, making the shot easier to execute. Cohen noted, “It’s about the distance of the shot. One hundred-thirty yards. That’s a putt. Anyone can put a two, two, three, optic on a target from that distance and hit it.”
The incident has led to intense scrutiny of the Secret Service, particularly under the leadership of Director Kimberly Cheatle. Critics argue that the agency’s focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives may have compromised essential security measures. Reports indicate that Trump had requested heightened security, which was denied.
Elon Musk, who endorsed Trump following the attack, has called for Cheatle’s resignation, citing either incompetence or deliberate negligence. The FBI continues to investigate Crooks’ motives and background, aiming to prevent future incidents.
Cohen’s analysis underscores the precarious nature of the situation and the critical role of seemingly minor movements in high-stakes scenarios. The event has sparked a broader discussion on the importance of stringent security protocols and the need for rapid response to potential threats.
