In a shocking turn of events, former President Donald Trump was evacuated to safety on Sunday following what authorities are calling an apparent assassination attempt at his golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida.
This incident follows closely on the heels of a shooting during a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, two months ago, which resulted in injuries to the Republican nominee and the death of a supporter.
Fresh details are emerging regarding the suspect identified as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh. Here is what is known so far.
How was the suspect spotted?
The alarming situation unfolded at Trump International Golf Club, located about 15 minutes from his Florida residence, Mar-a-Lago.
Secret Service agents, tasked with securing the course ahead of the former president, were the first to notice the gunman. Typically, agents survey one hole in advance for security purposes, as confirmed by law enforcement.
Sheriff Ric Bradshaw reported that the suspect was spotted with the muzzle of what appeared to be an AK-47-style rifle protruding from the foliage surrounding the course, while Trump was approximately 300-500 yards away.
In response, an agent “immediately engaged” with the individual, who subsequently fled the scene.
“The Secret Service did exactly what should have been done,” Sheriff Bradshaw stated.
How was the suspect caught?
Agents fired four to five rounds after spotting the gunman, prompting him to abandon his rifle and flee in a vehicle, leaving behind two knapsacks, a scope, and a GoPro camera.
Witnesses reported seeing the suspect escape toward a black Nissan, and a photograph of the vehicle was provided to law enforcement.
The suspect was later arrested while driving northbound on I-95, approximately 38 miles from the golf course.
Who is Ryan Routh?
Investigations have revealed that Routh had previously called for foreign fighters to Ukraine to combat Russian forces. His social media profiles show a mix of pro-Palestinian, pro-Taiwan, and anti-China sentiments, along with claims about Chinese “biological warfare” related to the Covid-19 virus.
Routh, who lacks military experience, mentioned to media in 2023 that he traveled to Ukraine after Russia’s invasion seeking military recruits among Afghan soldiers.
He reportedly has a criminal history, including multiple felony convictions in North Carolina between 2002 and 2010 for offences such as carrying a concealed weapon and resisting arrest.
During a hearing in West Palm Beach, Routh claimed to have no savings, citing a monthly income of approximately $3,000 and owning two trucks in Hawaii valued at around $1,000 each.
What happened to Trump?
Fortunately, Trump was not harmed in the incident. His campaign issued a statement confirming his safety, where he stated, “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.”
During an interview, Trump recounted hearing several gunshots while on the fifth hole, and he described how Secret Service agents swiftly protected him before he was evacuated in a reinforced vehicle.
What has the political reaction been following this second assassination attempt?
Supporters of Trump have congregated outside Mar-a-Lago and at the golf club in light of the incident, displaying signs of solidarity with messages such as “America first” and wearing MAGA hats.
In response, the White House confirmed that President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris had been informed about the situation. Harris expressed her dismay over the potential assassination attempt, stating her concerns.
Bipartisan leaders of a congressional task force investigating the previous assassination attempt expressed gratitude for Trump’s safety but emphasized their ongoing concerns and requested a briefing with the Secret Service.
What happens next?
Routh’s court appearance lasted under 10 minutes, during which multiple charges were presented, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. His next court date is planned for the following Monday.
The Palm Beach County State Attorney indicated that Routh could face a lengthy prison term, as some charges carry a maximum sentence of 20 years.
The FBI is leading the investigation, collaborating with the Secret Service and local law enforcement agencies to assess the situation, with resources mobilized for investigative efforts.
Secret Service officials have stated that additional measures have been instituted to address heightened security concerns following this latest threat.
