Trump survives second assassination attempt at golf course
Routh detained with AK-47 near Trump at West Palm Beach golf course
Ryan Wesley Routh, accused of a second assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, displayed unusual calmness when apprehended, according to the Florida sheriff who arrested him.
Martin County Sheriff William Snyder expressed immediate suspicion after stopping Routh, 58, who had fled in a black Nissan. Secret Service agents had fired shots at him after spotting him with a rifle near the fence around Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, where Trump was playing golf.
“He had a very detached, flat expression,” Snyder said, noting Routh’s lack of concern. Despite the presence of helicopters and police lights, Routh did not question why he was being stopped.
The US Secret Service has confirmed a second assassination attempt on President Donald Trump at his golf course in Florida
Thankfully Trump is unharmed and assassin is in custody thanks to civilian intervention once again
How did he know exactly where Trump would be? pic.twitter.com/4mFj3XWYQh
— Crypto Condo (@thecryptocondo) September 15, 2024
Routh was allegedly equipped with an AK-47 at the golf course while Trump played the fifth hole on Sunday. Martin County authorities arrested him, Snyder confirmed.
The plot unraveled when a Secret Service agent, walking a hole ahead of Trump’s group, noticed the rifle, as stated by Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw during a press conference.
Authorities reported that Routh was positioned 300 to 500 yards from Trump.
“This is appalling, irrespective of political views. It’s horrific,” Snyder remarked. “You have a former president, a potential future president, out golfing. What the heck? He was just golfing, not even campaigning.”
Authorities recovered two backpacks, bullet-deflecting ceramic plates, and a GoPro camera from Routh. The AK-47 was also seized.
“How does someone with a tactical rifle and sighting get near a golf course where a former president is golfing? It’s appalling and reflects the state of affairs in America,” Snyder stated.
Snyder commended local law enforcement for their swift actions in apprehending Routh. “The men and women in Palm Beach County did everything to keep President Trump safe. They will likely increase their efforts moving forward,” he added.
Trump also praised the Secret Service’s quick response during the incident, where he was swiftly escorted back to the clubhouse in a golf cart amid the gunfire.
Two months prior, Trump was shot in the right ear by an assailant during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Following this latest attempt, Trump reassured his supporters of his safety.
“There were gunshots near me, but before rumors spread, I wanted you to hear it first: I AM SAFE AND WELL!” Trump stated in a fundraising email after the shooting. “Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER! I will always love you for supporting me,” he added.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Guardian reports on the attempted assassination of Donald Trump at his Florida golf course, detailing the suspect’s apprehension and the swift intervention of law enforcement, emphasizing the serious security breach. (Read more)
- BBC News provides an in-depth analysis of the Trump assassination attempt, highlighting security measures, suspect details, and reactions from authorities and politicians, emphasizing the ongoing threat of political violence in the US. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened during the second assassination attempt on Trump?
Ryan Wesley Routh was arrested after being spotted with an AK-47 near Trump International Golf Club.
How did law enforcement catch the suspect?
Secret Service agents spotted the rifle, and Routh was later pulled over and arrested by Martin County Sheriff Snyder.
Was Trump harmed during the incident?
No, Trump was quickly escorted back to the clubhouse and reassured supporters that he was safe and well.
What items were found with Routh?
Authorities recovered two backpacks, bullet-deflecting ceramic plates, a GoPro camera, and the AK-47.
How did the former president react to the incident?
Trump praised the Secret Service’s quick action and reassured supporters of his safety, stating he will never surrender.
