WASHINGTON – A member of Congress investigating the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump has criticized the FBI, accusing it of conducting a “scorched earth” investigation. He also questioned the decision to release the gunman’s body for cremation just ten days after the shooting.

The FBI has denied any interference with congressional inquiries regarding the shooting and maintains that its meticulous investigation adhered to standard protocols.

This disagreement comes in light of the ongoing investigations into the shooting that occurred on July 13 at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. In addition to the House committee, the FBI, Secret Service, and the Department of Homeland Security’s inspector general are all examining the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Here’s what we know about the recent updates:

Higgins Criticizes FBI for Body Release

In his initial findings, Rep. Clay Higgins, R-La., condemned various actions taken by the FBI during the investigation. He specifically noted the timing of releasing emergency responders on the night of the shooting, reopening the crime scene three days later, and the removal of biological evidence from the site.

Diving deeper, Higgins visited Butler from August 4 to 6, where he expressed concern that the FBI allowed the body of the gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, to be handed over to his family for cremation on July 23. This, according to Higgins, hampers any future investigative efforts. He also wanted to examine the body himself to verify the autopsy results.

“This pattern of investigative scorched earth by the FBI is quite concerning,” Higgins remarked.

In response, the FBI labeled the obstruction claims as “inaccurate and unfounded.” They explained that the decision to clean the area where Crooks died and the release of his body to the family was coordinated with the coroner’s office and other law enforcement entities.

“The FBI has been collaborating closely with our law enforcement partners to thoroughly investigate the shooting, and we have adhered to standard practices in handling the crime scene and evidence,” the FBI’s statement read. “Everything was documented and nothing was expedited.”

Investigator Rules Out Second Shooter Theory

Higgins has dismissed two conspiracy theories suggesting the presence of another gunman after inspecting the fairgrounds and climbing to a vantage point on the AGR building where Crooks had positioned himself to shoot Trump.

Following Crooks firing eight rounds, an officer from Butler County shot at Crooks’ AR-style firearm, causing it to fracture. After Crooks reappeared moments later, he was shot and killed by a Secret Service sniper.

Higgins noted he easily climbed onto the roof of the building without needing a ladder, emphasizing the lack of obstacles.

He found no supporting evidence for a reported “muzzle flash” from a building window. A staff member who worked in that office stated the window doesn’t open. Higgins suggested the flash was either digitally produced or a reflection from a camera.

Additionally, Higgins investigated claims about a dark figure seen at the top of a nearby water tower. He noted that local authorities had used a drone to inspect the tower on the morning of Trump’s rally, and a 25-foot ladder had not been deployed that day.

Higgins concluded he has not come across any evidence supporting the theory of a second shooter.

FBI and Secret Service Combat Conspiracy Theories

Officials from the FBI and Secret Service have stated that Crooks likely acted alone. However, various conspiracy theories about the possibility of additional shooters have rapidly emerged.

“Up until now, we have not discovered any proof of accomplices or co-conspirators, whether from abroad or within our borders,” stated FBI Director Christopher Wray during a session with the House Judiciary Committee on July 24.

On July 30, Ronald Rowe, the interim director of the Secret Service, expressed regret to the Senate Judiciary Committee for the slow dissemination of information to both Congress and the public.

“I am concerned that this shortage of information has led to the spread of numerous false and hazardous conspiracy theories regarding the events of that day,” Rowe remarked. “My intent is to clarify and dispel these theories.”

Additional reports about the Secret Service are forthcoming

Higgins mentioned that the review conducted by the House task force might take several months, but he assured that his upcoming report will be ready in a few weeks.

The Secret Service is anticipated to finalize a report on its plans and reactions to the assassination attempt by mid-September.

The FBI is engaged in its inquiry without a set deadline.

“The FBI is diligently working on the investigation to piece together a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances leading to the shooting, and we are dedicated to complete transparency as we continuously update Congress and release information to the public regarding the ongoing investigation,” stated the FBI.

In the days following the shooting, the Department of Homeland Security’s inspector general initiated three separate investigations. One will focus on how the Secret Service secured the campaign event, another will assess the sniper team’s preparations and response to possible threats, and the third will evaluate how the agency strategizes and executes its protection plans for individuals under its care.