Former President Donald Trump was the target of a second assassination attempt this year, this time while golfing at his course in West Palm Beach, Florida. The FBI confirmed the incident, which involved a suspect smuggling an AK-47 and a Go-Pro camera onto the golf course.
Trump, who had previously been shot at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, in mid-July, was not harmed in this latest attempt. The situation remains unclear, with conflicting reports about the suspect’s status and who fired the shots.
Donald Trump Jr. revealed on social media that the suspect had hidden the AK-47 in the bushes. The campaign confirmed Trump’s safety, but details about the gunman’s condition and custody status are still being investigated.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Secret Service addressed the media, explaining that a Secret Service agent engaged the suspect before he could get close to Trump. The suspect fled in a black Nissan but was later apprehended on I-95 in Martin County, Florida.
NBC News identified the suspect as Ryan Wesley Routh. The suspect reportedly had a Go-Pro camera mounted on a nearby fence, indicating premeditation. CNN reported that intelligence officials had warned Trump’s inner circle about foreign adversaries targeting them, particularly from Iran. Although unrelated to this incident, it highlights the increasing threats against Trump.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced a separate state investigation, apart from the federal probe. The U.K. Daily Mail interviewed the suspect’s son, who expressed disbelief at his father’s actions, describing him as non-violent.
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed on the situation. Biden released a statement through the White House, while Harris shared her concerns on social media.
The U.S. Secret Service has heightened security measures around Trump, with agents securing the area ahead of his movements. This precaution likely prevented the gunman from getting closer to Trump during the golf game.
As the investigation continues, authorities are seeking answers about how the suspect managed to breach security. The incident raises concerns about the effectiveness of current measures and the potential for insider information leaks.
Law enforcement officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The area around Trump’s golf course remains under heightened security, with authorities advising residents to avoid the vicinity temporarily.
This second assassination attempt underscores the persistent dangers Trump faces. Both federal and state authorities are working to uncover the full extent of the plot and bring those responsible to justice.
Image: Public Domain https ://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jerry_Brown_and_Kamala_Harris_-_2017.jpg
