Donald Trump evades a second assassination attempt at his West Palm Beach golf club.
At a Glance
- Donald Trump was targeted in an apparent assassination attempt at his golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida.
- The incident occurred nine weeks after a previous attempt on Trump’s life.
- Secret Service agents noticed a rifle muzzle through shrubbery, engaged the suspect, and discovered an AK-47.
- The suspect, identified as Ryan Routh, fled but was later apprehended in a neighboring county.
- Trump confirmed his safety and well-being in an email to supporters.
Assassination Attempt Details
In West Palm Beach, Florida, the FBI is investigating a renewed assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Shots were fired close to Trump at the Trump National Golf Club, though he was not injured. Secret Service agents noticed a rifle muzzle through shrubbery and engaged the suspect, who then fled the scene in an SUV.
Soon after, agents discovered an AK-47 on the premises. They also recovered two backpacks, a scope, and a GoPro camera. The suspect, Ryan Routh, was later apprehended in a neighboring county.
Trump later confirmed his safety to supporters via email, writing, “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!” He also returned to Mar-a-Lago following the incident.
FBI says it’s investigating ‘what appears to be an attempted assassination’ against Trump in Florida.
Read below:https://t.co/BZJ7PyLp6y pic.twitter.com/IM65uQxCxD— KSL 5 TV (@KSL5TV) September 15, 2024
Follow-Up Actions
This incident follows a previous attempt on Trump’s life in July at a Butler, Pennsylvania rally. This earlier attempt resulted in fatalities and serious injuries, leading to criticism of the U.S. Secret Service. The fallout from the incident led to the resignation of Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, and now Acting Director Ronald Rowe is heading to Florida to investigate.
“Secret Service did exactly what they should have done, and their agent did a fantastic job,” said Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw.
The suspect, Ryan Wesley Routh, is in his late 50s and has had previous encounters with law enforcement. A “be on the lookout” alert issued by authorities helped lead to his quick apprehension. While the motive remains unclear, authorities are working swiftly to piece together the suspect’s intentions.
Political and Security Implications
The incident raises questions about the adequacy of security measures surrounding political figures, especially during a tumultuous campaign year. Trump’s campaign staff were advised to remain vigilant. The suspect’s identification and the rapid response highlight the ongoing risks that former and current presidents face.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell commented that the investigation should be “thorough, swift, and transparent,” echoing sentiments across the political spectrum. House Speaker Mike Johnson described the incident as “unstoppable,” while Trump firmly stated in a fundraising email, “I will never slow down. I will never give up. I WILL NEVER SURRENDER!”
Several political figures, including Sen. JD Vance, Sen. Lindsey Graham, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, condemned the attack and expressed relief at Trump’s safety. President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were also briefed on the incident and expressed their relief.
As the investigation unfolds, security for Trump will be increasingly scrutinized. The Palm Beach County sheriff has noted that security protocols will be reviewed and potentially increased for future visits. The FBI continues to lead the investigation, with assistance from other agencies to determine the full scope and intent of the assassination attempt.
