The FBI has confirmed that former President Donald Trump was the target of what appears to be an attempted assassination at his golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sunday. The incident comes just nine weeks after another attempt on his life. Trump, who is the Republican presidential nominee, was unharmed, and authorities have a suspect in custody.
During the incident, U.S. Secret Service agents, positioned a few holes ahead of where Trump was playing, noticed the muzzle of an AK-style rifle protruding through the shrubbery lining the course. The suspect fled in an SUV after being fired upon by an agent, leaving behind the rifle, two backpacks, a scope, and a GoPro camera.
According to Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, the suspect was later apprehended in a neighboring county. The individual, identified as Ryan Wesley Routh, had a calm demeanor when stopped, showing little emotion. Sheriff William Snyder of Martin County commented, “He never asked, ‘What is this about?’ Obviously, law enforcement with long rifles, blue lights, a lot going on. He never questioned it.”
In an email to supporters, Trump reassured that he was safe, stating, “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 further declared, “Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER!”
The former president returned to his private club, Mar-a-Lago, in Palm Beach. The incident has sparked renewed concerns about the security arrangements for Trump, who has been a high-profile target since his tenure in office.
The FBI is leading the investigation to determine the motive behind the assassination attempt. Attorney General Merrick Garland is receiving regular updates, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives is also assisting in the investigation.
Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden were briefed on the incident. Harris expressed her deep disturbance over the event, calling for collective efforts to prevent further violence. Biden emphasized that the Secret Service should have every resource necessary to ensure Trump’s safety.