On Saturday, during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, former US President and current Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump was injured in a shooting. Blood was visible on his face as security escorted him off the stage. Trump’s spokesman later confirmed he was “fine” and receiving medical attention at a local facility.
Trump’s Post on Social Account
Trump shared on his Truth Social account that he was shot, with the bullet piercing the upper part of his right ear. He mentioned experiencing significant bleeding during the incident.
Biden’s Condemnation
President Joe Biden condemned the attack, calling it “sick” and stating that such violence has no place in America. He expressed his intention to speak with Trump and emphasized the need for universal condemnation of the act.
Casualties and Investigation
The attack resulted in the deaths of the shooter and one rally attendee. The FBI, along with the US Secret Service and other agencies, are investigating the incident as an attempted assassination.
Video Evidence and Immediate Response
A video from the rally captured the sound of multiple gunshots as Trump was criticizing President Biden and his administration. Secret Service agents quickly shielded Trump and escorted him to a waiting vehicle. Trump raised his fist in the air as the crowd cheered while he was taken away. Armed police secured the stage shortly after.
Assurances from the Secret Service
The US Secret Service assured the public that Trump was safe and protective measures were in place. The former president has since been released from the hospital.
Details from the Secret Service
Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the Secret Service, detailed the incident, explaining that the shooter fired from an elevated position outside the rally venue. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who was killed during the exchange. One rally attendee also lost their life, and two others are critically injured. Witnesses reported seeing the shooter, armed with a rifle, crawling up a nearby roof during Trump’s speech. Despite efforts to alert law enforcement, shots rang out before they could intervene.
FBI Takes the Lead
The FBI has taken the lead in the investigation, with the Secret Service officially notifying them of the incident. FBI personnel are currently on the scene gathering evidence.
Statements from Leaders
President Biden, in his condemnation, expressed relief that Trump was safe and praised the Secret Service for their quick action. He called for national unity to reject such violence. Biden’s sentiments were echoed by US Defence Secretary Lloyd J. Austin, who stressed that violence is not the American way of resolving differences and expressed his relief that Trump was safe.
Trump’s Response
In a social media post, Trump thanked the Secret Service and law enforcement for their rapid response. He also extended condolences to the family of the rally attendee who was killed and to those injured in the attack. He expressed disbelief that such violence could occur in the United States and noted that nothing was known about the shooter at that time.
