Second Assassination Attempt on Former President Trump Thwarted

Police Line

At a Glance

  • Former President Trump narrowly survived an assassination attempt at his West Palm Beach, Florida golf club.
  • The suspect, Ryan Routh, a 58-year-old from Hawaii, was armed with a scoped AK-47 rifle.
  • This is the second assassination attempt on Trump in two months.
  • Routh was positioned 300-500 yards away from Trump, near a chain-link fence.

Attempt on Former President Trump’s Life

Security forces thwarted an assassination attempt on Donald Trump at his West Palm Beach Golf Club. The suspect, Ryan Routh, targeted Trump with a scoped AK-47 but was spotted by a Secret Service agent, who opened fire, causing Routh to flee. Trump was unharmed and reassured supporters about his safety.

Routh, a 58-year-old with a criminal record, was arrested on I-95 after a bystander identified him. Authorities found an AK-47, bags, and a GoPro camera used to record the shooting. The incident was the second assassination attempt on Trump in two months.

Details of the Incident

The suspect set up a sniper nest approximately 300-500 yards away from Trump, near a chain-link fence. A Secret Service agent engaged and opened fire, disrupting Routh’s plans. Routh’s history includes charges like carrying a concealed weapon and possessing a weapon of mass destruction.

Routh attempted to escape but was apprehended after a civilian alerted authorities. He was taken into custody on I-95. Trump’s running mate JD Vance confirmed Trump’s safety and spirits were up.

Investigation and Reactions

The Secret Service, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s office, and FBI are investigating the incident. The White House, President Joe Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed and expressed relief over Trump’s safety. Security protocols are under scrutiny following the incident.

Trump’s campaign communications director, Steven Cheung, assured the public of Trump’s safety. The former president returned to Mar-a-Lago, maintaining his campaign schedule.

Sources:

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