- Ryan Wesley Routh, identified as the suspect in the attempted assassination of Donald Trump
- A Secret Service agent noticed the suspect with an AK-style rifle
- Trump's campaign assured supporters of his safety
The FBI has reported that former President Donald Trump was the apparent target of an attempted assassination on Sunday afternoon at his golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Local officials identified the suspect as Ryan Wesley Routh, who is now in custody.
According to Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, the Secret Service alerted local authorities around 1:30 p.m. ET about multiple gunshots heard at the golf course.
A Secret Service agent stationed a hole ahead of Trump noticed an AK-style rifle protruding from a fence. The agent engaged with the suspect, who then fled in a black Nissan. Secret Service agents subsequently fired at the fleeing individual.
Bradshaw noted that the suspect was approximately 300 to 500 yards from Trump, a distance that could be dangerous with a rifle and scope. The suspect left behind two backpacks and a GoPro camera.
A witness provided authorities with details about the suspect’s vehicle, leading to Routh’s apprehension on Interstate 95. Martin County Sheriff William D. Snyder described Routh as “relatively calm” during his arrest, with no visible emotional reaction.
In July, Trump had been injured in a similar assassination attempt during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Trump’s campaign sent out an email assuring supporters of his safety: “There were gunshots in my vicinity, but before rumors start spiraling out of control, I wanted you to hear this first: I AM SAFE AND WELL!” Trump’s running mate, Senator JD Vance, confirmed that Trump was in good spirits following the incident.
Local officials noted that while the security for a sitting president would have been extensive, only a limited number of Secret Service agents were present for a presidential nominee, complicating detection efforts due to the surrounding shrubbery.
Rafael Barros, Special Agent in Charge of the Miami Field Office, emphasized the high threat level and increased security measures. “We live in dangerous times,” he stated.
The White House confirmed that President Biden and Vice President Harris were briefed on the situation and were relieved to hear of Trump’s safety. Attorney General Merrick Garland is also monitoring the situation.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised the Secret Service for their swift response and condemned political violence, stating, “There is no place in this country for political violence of any kind. The perpetrator must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
