In a dramatic development on Sunday, former President Donald Trump was quickly evacuated to safety following a thwarted assassination attempt at his golf course in West Palm Beach. The FBI is leading the investigation into the incident, which comes just two months after a shooting at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania.
Incident Overview: While Trump was at Trump International Golf Club, located a short distance from his Mar-a-Lago residence, Secret Service agents conducting routine security checks noticed an AK-47-style rifle protruding from the shrubbery on the course. The agents confronted the suspect, who then fled.
Suspect Details: The suspect has been identified by U.S. media as Ryan Wesley Routh. After abandoning his rifle, two knapsacks, a scope, and a GoPro camera, Routh was apprehended by police while driving northbound on I-95, about 38 miles from the golf course. Initial reports reveal Routh's criminal history and controversial political views shared on social media.
Trump's Condition: Trump was unharmed during the incident. He reassured his supporters with a statement: “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.”
Investigation and Next Steps: The FBI, along with the Secret Service and local law enforcement, is overseeing the investigation. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have been briefed and expressed relief that Trump was safe. A bipartisan congressional task force investigating a previous assassination attempt has requested a briefing on this latest incident. Routh is expected to appear in court for the first time on Monday in Palm Beach County.
Authorities are continuing to evaluate the situation and are implementing enhanced security measures in response to this new threat.