A suspected gunman has been arrested near a golf course associated with Donald Trump, revealing a chilling note indicating his intent to kill the former president. Court documents obtained detail that this alarming message was delivered months prior to the September 15 incident in Florida.
The note, categorized by prosecutors as evidence of an assassination attempt, states: “This was an assassination attempt on Donald Trump.” This dire warning was found among materials including ammunition, tools, and multiple phones, all discovered at the residence of a witness before the incident occurred.
Ryan Routh, 58, is set to appear in federal court, where he could face additional charges. He currently faces two federal firearms charges stemming from his actions. The note suggests a premeditated plan that fell short, with Routh reportedly writing, “I tried my best and gave it all the gumption I could muster.”
Routh was apprehended after a Secret Service agent noticed him while securing the golf course and observed a rifle in his possession. The agent reacted by exiting his vehicle and discharging his firearm upon witnessing Routh maneuvering his weapon.
Court filings highlight that the suspect possessed 11 rounds of ammunition, one of which was ready to fire in his rifle. Phone records disclose that Routh was in proximity to Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence for an extended period from August 18 to September 15.
Originally from North Carolina, Routh had been residing in Hawaii prior to his arrest. His recent activities included an unsuccessful attempt in 2022 to recruit foreign soldiers for Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia. Reports indicate he regularly reached out to a military legion in Ukraine, with his proposals being dismissed as “nonsensical” and “delusional.” Routh claimed his own recruitment failures were based on his age and lack of combat experience.
