Second assassination attempt on Donald Trump; suspect arrested
- In Reports
- 11:29 AM, Sep 16, 2024
- Myind Staff
Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump survived a second assassination attempt on Sunday. The FBI reported hearing gunshots outside a Florida golf course where Trump was playing. President Joe Biden confirmed that the incident is under investigation, with a suspect already in custody.
Following the shooting incident, former President Donald Trump reassured his supporters that he was "absolutely safe and well."
In a fundraising email, Trump addressed the situation, stating, "There were gunshots in my vicinity, but I want you to hear this from me first: I AM SAFE AND WELL! Before rumours get out of hand, know that I am okay."
Trump continued, "Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER! I will always appreciate your support."
Biden said that federal law enforcement is investigating the “possible assassination attempt” at Trump. “A suspect is in custody, and I commend the work of the Secret Service and their law enforcement partners for their vigilance and their efforts to keep the former President and those around him safe,” he said. Biden said he is relieved that Trump is unharmed but stressed that there is no place for “political violence or for any violence ever in our country”.
Biden said he has directed his team to ensure that the “Secret Service has every resource, capability and protective measure necessary to ensure the former President’s continued safety”.
According to a report by The Associated Press, Ryan Wesley Routh aimed a rifle with a scope at Trump’s golf club before being arrested. The incident occurred around 1:30 pm local time when Secret Service agents observed Routh with an AK-47 near the golf course. The agents fired at him in response.
Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris was also briefed about the security incident.
Meanwhile, the Trump Campaign headquarters, located on the same campus, is under lockdown.
This second assassination attempt follows a shooting incident two months ago during a rally in Pennsylvania, where Trump sustained a minor injury to his right ear.
Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw reported that Secret Service agents spotted a rifle barrel protruding from bushes approximately 365 to 460 metres away from Trump while they were checking for potential threats before his game. The agents engaged the gunman, firing at least four rounds. The gunman then abandoned his rifle, left behind two backpacks and other items, and fled in a black Nissan car. The sheriff noted that a witness managed to photograph the car and its license plate before the suspect escaped.
After the suspect fled, police issued a statewide alert with details about his vehicle. This led to sheriff’s deputies in neighbouring Martin County apprehending him on I-95, approximately 40 miles (65 km) from the golf course.
Image source: AP
Comments