Forensic analysis conducted following the Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, suggests that up to three weapons were fired during the incident, according to the FBI’s latest statement on Sunday.
Audio forensics by Catalin Grigoras and Cole Whitecotton from the National Center for Media Forensics at the University of Colorado revealed distinct acoustic signatures corresponding to different firearms. The analysis identified a sequence of shots attributed to three alleged weapons: the first three shots matched alleged weapon A, followed by five shots from alleged weapon B, and a final acoustic impulse possibly from weapon C.
Additionally, Robert Maher, a forensics expert, confirmed that the gunman was positioned approximately 360 to 393 feet away from the rally podium based on audio analysis.
“This analysis underscores the complexity of the incident,” Maher emphasized, noting the “crack-pop” sequence typical of supersonic bullets passing microphones, followed by muzzle blast sounds.
Maher estimated the shooter’s distance from the microphone at 110 to 120 meters, assuming a bullet speed of 800 to 1,000 meters per second.
The findings corroborate initial reports suggesting the gunman operated alone and fired from a rooftop located 393 to 492 feet away from the podium, according to earlier assessments.
The FBI continues to investigate the motive behind the shooting, emphasizing that the analysis remains ongoing as they explore all leads related to the incident.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are focusing on enhancing security measures to prevent future occurrences of such violence at political events.
