Former President Donald Trump expressed surprise at not being warned about the gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, by the Secret Service during his rally in Pennsylvania when he was shot in the ear. Questions were raised about security lapses, including how Crooks managed to get onto the roof undetected and why Trump was not informed despite law enforcement's prior knowledge. The incident highlighted the need for improved security protocols and better communication during public appearances by political figures. Speculative claims that a photographer knew about the assassination attempt beforehand due to camera settings were debunked, emphasizing the photographer's routine coverage of political events. Law enforcement efforts to locate the gunman before the shooting, the delayed response, and the scrutiny faced by the Secret Service for allowing Trump on stage without full awareness of the threat have come under increasing scrutiny.