The FBI is probing an apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump after a man armed with an AK-style rifle was spotted near Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sunday.
The suspect, identified as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, was apprehended in nearby Martin County after fleeing the scene.
Routh faces federal charges including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, with additional charges anticipated as federal prosecutors prepare for an indictment.
Trump, who was golfing with advisor Steve Witkoff at the time, was unharmed and quickly moved to a secure location. This incident marks the second apparent assassination attempt against Trump in the last nine weeks.
President Biden expressed relief over Trump’s safety and urged Congress to bolster the Secret Service.
During a press briefing, officials revealed that U.S. Secret Service agents opened fire upon spotting the suspect near the golf course’s perimeter, although it remains unclear if Routh fired any shots before fleeing in an SUV. Routh was captured on I-95, north of Palm Beach, and was found unarmed at the time of his arrest.
Photos from the scene show an AK-47 rifle, a backpack, and a GoPro camera left on a fence outside Trump International Golf Club. The FBI is investigating these items and has confirmed the incident as a potential assassination attempt.
Following the incident, Trump remained at the golf club while Secret Service agents reassessed security at his Mar-a-Lago residence.
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In an email to supporters, Trump assured them of his safety and vowed to continue his campaign efforts. His running mate, Senator JD Vance, confirmed that Trump is in good spirits.
Vice President Kamala Harris and President Biden condemned the violence and reiterated the need for enhanced security. Biden emphasized the importance of ensuring the Secret Service has adequate resources for protecting former presidents.
This incident follows a July 13 attack where Trump was grazed by a bullet during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. A bipartisan House task force is now seeking a briefing from the Secret Service on the latest attempt and its response.
Security measures around Trump have been under scrutiny, particularly since the Secret Service had previously denied some of his team’s requests for increased protection. The latest attack has intensified calls for reviewing and potentially enhancing security protocols for former presidents.