Former President Donald Trump praised the Secret Service and law enforcement officers following an apparent assassination attempt against him at his golf course in Florida. Trump thanked everyone for their concern and expressed gratitude for the men and women who worked to keep him safe during the incident. A suspect, identified as Ryan Routh, was detained after Secret Service agents spotted a rifle on the golf course. The suspect did not fire at Trump, and the former president was unharmed.
This incident marks the second assassination attempt against Trump in three months, with the first occurring in Pennsylvania where a gunman opened fire during a rally. Former Secret Service director Kimberly Cheatle resigned following criticism over security lapses. The FBI has joined the investigation into the Florida incident to determine the motive behind Routh’s alleged assassination attempt. Routh, who was later detained by police, reportedly showed strong support for Ukraine in their fight against the Russian invasion.
Sheriff Bradshaw stated that the suspect was armed with what is believed to be an AK-47 style rifle and was able to get within 300 to 500 yards of Trump. During a press conference, Bradshaw commended the Secret Service for their quick response to the threat. Routh left behind his firearm and other belongings before fleeing the scene. The suspect’s son described him as a loving and caring father, expressing disbelief at the allegations against him.
In his post on Truth Social following the incident, Trump thanked the U.S. Secret Service, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, and all law enforcement officers for their outstanding job in keeping him safe. The former president reiterated his pride in being an American and his confidence in the protection provided by the agencies involved. Secret Service Special Agent Rafael Barros confirmed that Trump was safe and unharmed, and that the incident is under investigation.
The FBI is investigating the attempted assassination of former President Trump, who was playing golf at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach when the incident occurred. Law enforcement officers responded quickly to the threat posed by the suspect, who fled the scene and was later apprehended. Authorities are working to establish a motive for the attempted attack and ensure the safety of Trump and other public figures. The Secret Service has been commended for their swift actions in protecting the former president during the incident.