BlackRock has removed a years-old advertisement featuring Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old gunman who authorities say shot and injured former President Donald Trump during a rally on Saturday in Pennsylvania.
Crooks was one of several students featured in a 2022 ad highlighting the work of an advanced placement and honors economics teacher at Bethel Park High School, near Pittsburgh. The ad, like other commercials produced by the investment firm, showcased BlackRock’s efforts in managing retirement plans for teachers across the U.S.
Crooks appeared for a total of two seconds in the background of the ad, along with other unpaid students, BlackRock noted. The firm stated that all video footage would be made available to authorities and that it removed the video out of respect for the victims.
In addition to Trump, who sustained injuries but is reported to be safe, at least three other people were harmed during the incident. David Dutch and James Copenhaver, Pennsylvania residents, were injured and are in stable condition, according to state police. Corey Comperatore of Sarver, Pennsylvania, was shot and killed in the attack.
“The assassination attempt on former President Trump is abhorrent,” BlackRock said in a statement. “We’re thankful former President Trump wasn’t seriously injured and are thinking about all the innocent bystanders and victims of this awful act, especially the person who was killed.” The firm emphasized its condemnation of political violence and its commitment to promoting civility and unity in the country.
The advertisement came to light on Sunday when right-wing activist and former Republican congressional candidate Laura Loomer discovered its connection to Crooks. Conspiracy theorists quickly amplified the finding, with some baselessly claiming BlackRock had a role in the assassination attempt.
“Ties discovered between BlackRock and Trump shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks, featured in their programming,” Rumble livestreamer Matt Wallace wrote on X. “THIS WAS ALL PLANNED,” he added.
Separately, BlackRock reported its second-quarter earnings on Monday. The New York-based firm announced an 11% increase in profit year-over-year and an 8% rise in revenue. It now manages a record $10.64 trillion in assets for clients, representing a 13% increase compared to the previous year.