Authorities Investigate After Suspected Assassination Attempt Against Trump

The FBI has launched an investigation into a possible assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump at his Florida golf club.

At a Glance

Secret Service agents engaged a suspect pointing a high-powered rifle at Trump’s golf course.
The incident occurred almost two months after a previous assassination attempt in Pennsylvania.
Suspect Ryan Wesley Routh was apprehended.
FBI is leading the investigation, with assistance from other agencies.
The incident has raised questions about Secret Service protective operations.

FBI Investigates Suspected Assassination Attempt

The FBI and Secret Service are probing “what appears to be an attempted assassination” of former President Donald Trump. The incident occurred at Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida, marking the second such attempt in less than two months. Secret Service agents noticed a rifle muzzle protruding from nearby shrubbery and immediately opened fire, causing the gunman to flee the scene.

The suspect, identified as Ryan Wesley Routh, was later apprehended in a neighboring county. According to Martin County Sheriff William Snyder, Routh “never asked, ‘What is this about?’ Obviously, law enforcement with long rifles, blue lights, a lot going on. He never questioned it.”

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has said that the state will also launch its own investigation into the incident at Trump’s golf course.

Routh had his first court appearance on Monday and was hit with two charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.

Secret Service fires at man with gun near Trump on golf course; FBI investigating incident as apparent assassination attempt https://t.co/dixqsUGE3s

— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) September 16, 2024

Evidence Left Behind and Suspect Background

The suspect left behind several pieces of evidence at the scene, including a rifle, two backpacks, a scope, and a GoPro camera. These items are now crucial to the ongoing investigation. Routh’s background has come under scrutiny, revealing a history of violent rhetoric and previous arrests. In 2002, he was arrested in Greensboro, N.C., after barricading himself with a fully automatic weapon.

Routh’s social media profiles reveal frequent posts about politics, showing initial support for Trump that later turned to disappointment. Intriguingly, he had also expressed a desire to fight in Ukraine and admiration for former congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. Routh has reportedly faced 100 criminal counts in North Carolina.

Security Concerns and Political Reactions

The incident has raised significant questions about Secret Service protective operations, especially given that this is the second attempt on Trump’s life in recent months. The open nature of golf courses poses unique security challenges for protecting the former president. The Secret Service has reportedly bolstered Trump’s protective detail amid concerns about an Iranian plot targeting him.

Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw praised the Secret Service for its response, saying, “Secret Service did exactly what they should have done, and their agent did a fantastic job.”

Political figures from both parties have condemned the violence. President Biden and Vice President Harris have ensured additional Secret Service resources for Trump’s safety. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced a state investigation into the incident, while lawmakers are calling for scrutiny and potential changes to Secret Service protocols.

Trump’s Response and Campaign Continuation

Despite the gravity of the situation, Trump has maintained a resolute stance. In an email to supporters, he confirmed his safety and well-being, 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 added, “Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER!”

Trump has since returned to Mar-a-Lago and continues his campaign schedule. He has taken to social media to thank law enforcement and check in with allies. The former president was reportedly playing golf with Steve Witkoff when the incident occurred.