Following Thomas Matthew Crooks’ assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump on July 13, insights into his social behavior and mental condition have surfaced.
Residents of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, where Crooks, aged 20, lived with his parents, have characterized him as a “loner” in conversations with local media.
Investigation into Crooks’ phone revealed previous searches related to symptoms of depressive disorder, as reported.
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During a Monday press call, Kevin Rojak, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s Pittsburgh office, described Crooks as a “loner” concerning his mental state and social connections.
“He seems to have limited social interactions, primarily spending time with immediate family and lacking friendships throughout his life,” Rojak stated.
Thomas Matthew Crooks is depicted at the Butler Fairgrounds following the July 13, 2024, assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Bethel Park School District; Getty Images)
Jason Kohler, a former high school peer of Crooks, described him as an “outcast” who was frequently alone and subjected to “daily bullying.”
Kohler recounted that Crooks often lunched by himself and was ridiculed for his attire, which frequently included “hunting clothing.”
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Reflecting on prior events, some classmates noted warning indicators suggesting that Crooks might have been capable of orchestrating the violent act that resulted in one fatality, two critical injuries, and harm to a former president.
Former President Donald Trump is hurried offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
“The signs were evident, and someone had to be aware,” commented Vincent Taormina, another former classmate of Crooks, in a previous interview with Fox News Digital.
When is a loner dangerous?
Jonathan Alpert, a Manhattan-based psychotherapist and author, clarified that many loners are “totally harmless.”
“Being a loner itself is not an ominous characteristic,” he stated via email to Fox News Digital on Monday. “Social withdrawal and extreme isolation can merely indicate depression.”
Nonetheless, Alpert observed that certain loners may exhibit disturbing behaviors.
“Being a loner itself is not a dangerous trait,” stated a psychologist. “Social withdrawal and extreme isolation can indicate depression.” (iStock)
“Any extreme actions or sudden mood changes indicate emotional instability and should be approached seriously, especially if the individual has shown hostility towards others or society,” the expert added.
“If obsessions with violence, weapons, or death are present, it indicates a potential for harm to others.”
“Any extreme actions or sudden mood changes indicate emotional instability and should be approached seriously.”
Alpert cautioned that paranoid or delusional thinking can increase risks for these individuals — “especially if they believe they have a mission or that others are threatening them.”
“Every person needs a sense of belonging and to know they are cared for,” stated a mental health expert. (iStock)
Dr. Judy Ho, an associate professor and IRB chair at Pepperdine University, concurred, emphasizing that preferring solitude often reflects a personality trait and not a sign of imminent danger.
“Sometimes, individuals enjoy solitary time for recharging, as constant social interaction can be tiring,” she explained.
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“This characterizes the ‘introverted’ personality, which often thrives in minimal social settings and feels more relaxed after personal downtime.”
People may also isolate due to depression, typically accompanied by symptoms such as low mood, diminished interest in formerly enjoyable activities, irritability, feelings of worthlessness, disrupted sleep or appetite, complaints of fatigue, and possible suicidal thoughts or self-harm.
Thomas Matthew Crooks, the would-be assassin of former President Donald J. Trump, graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022. (Obtained by Fox News Digital)
“A more perilous ‘loner’ behavior may present specific traits, such as acting as if holding deep secrets, feeling alienated or lost, or expressing that others have wronged them and wishing for retribution for perceived injustices,” Ho elaborated.
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Further warning signs might include a lack of purpose or ambition, a yearning for power while feeling powerless, and spending excessive time delving into conspiracy theories or engaging in risky hobbies, Ho stated.
Judy Gaman, CEO of Executive Medicine of Texas and a wellness expert, reiterated the distinction.
“Everyone experiences feelings of sadness occasionally, and depression can arise from diverse factors like trauma or hormonal changes,” she told Fox News Digital.
“The loner personality type is often anti-social, potentially harboring anger against the world or specific groups, and may carry a history of being bullied or mistreated as a child,” noted an expert. (iStock)
“Shifting transient moods differ significantly from the personality disorders commonly associated with individuals labeled ‘loners,’” she explained.
“The ‘loner’ persona can be anti-social, often resentful towards the world or particular demographics, possibly stemming from childhood bullying or abuse.”
5 tips for addressing ‘loner’ behavior in others
Should you suspect someone you know is a loner exhibiting warning signs, certain actions might help avert escalation.
1. Assess the situation carefully
“Observe specific behaviors and patterns that lead you to perceive someone as a threat,” Alpert advised.
It’s essential to refrain from making assumptions in this evaluation, he emphasized.
“The stigma surrounding mental illness remains significant, so ensuring they feel unjudged for revealing their vulnerabilities can mean everything,” stated an expert. (Bethel Park School District; iStock)
“Often, individuals jump to conclusions that someone exhibits specific behaviors simply based on appearance— for instance, not everyone dressed in black indicates a proclivity for violence,” Alpert stated.
2. Engage in a judgment-free conversation
Ho suggested beginning with observations of concerning behaviors involved without jumping to conclusions about their meanings.
“Express your worries about the person and inquire about what’s been happening, allowing pauses for them to share their feelings,” she recommended.
3. Offer assistance
“Once they’ve opened up, inquire how you can provide support rather than presuming what they require, as their needs might differ,” Ho advised.
Consider accompanying the individual to a mental health professional or trusted contacts if they are amenable.
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“The stigma surrounding mental illness is still present, and just knowing they won’t be judged for discussing their vulnerabilities can make a huge difference,” Ho expressed.
4. Recognize when to reach out to authorities
If you genuinely believe someone could be a threat to others, direct confrontation is unwise, according to Alpert.
If you suspect that someone you know is a loner exhibiting the aforementioned warning signs, there are steps to help prevent escalation, experts advise. (iStock)
“It’s best to avoid provoking them,” the expert cautioned. “Instead, contact authorities with your concerns.”
Teachers, parents, and healthcare providers should maintain heightened awareness of mental health warning signs, Gaman added.
5. Speak up when something seems off
“Often, we hesitate to intrusion or breach someone’s privacy, but intervening when you notice concerning behavior—either directly or by notifying the police—has the potential to save lives, including your own,” Ho suggested.
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“Never underestimate the impact of your actions in aiding someone in distress. A simple listening ear can sometimes help them gain perspective, offering reasons for hope and motivation to continue.”
“By intervening when you notice concerning behavior, you can potentially save lives.”
If Crooks’ loneliness influenced his choice to attempt assassination on July 13, it underscores the critical role of social support for mental health, according to experts.
“Community matters to everyone,” Ho emphasized to Fox News Digital.
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“Every individual needs to feel connected to something larger than themselves and be assured that there are people who care for them,” she continued.
“Even a small circle of friends is vital for each person to feel they have reliable individuals they can depend on.”
Reporting contributed by Audrey Conklin and Christina Coulter of Fox News Digital.
