Donald Trump recently expressed his gratitude towards the Secret Service and law enforcement personnel following an alarming incident at his golf course in Florida, where an apparent assassination attempt took place.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump acknowledged the outpouring of concern he received after what he termed an “interesting day” at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach on Sunday.
The situation escalated when Secret Service agents noticed a rifle protruding from a bush while conducting a sweep of the area, just ahead of Trump’s location on the course. The alleged perpetrator, identified as Ryan Routh, fled when agents confronted him, although he did not fire at Trump who was unharmed.
“I want to thank everyone for your concern and well wishes – It was certainly an interesting day,” Trump wrote. He credited the U.S. Secret Service, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, and all law enforcement for their outstanding efforts to ensure his safety as the former president and upcoming Republican nominee.
Background of the Incident
This event marks the second assassination attempt against Trump in just three months. In July, he sustained minor injuries when a gunman opened fire during a rally in Pennsylvania, resulting in one fatality and two serious injuries among his supporters. The Secret Service faced backlash for security lapses that allowed the shooter to access a position equipped with an AR-15-style rifle.
Following the incident, former Secret Service director Kimberly Cheatle resigned amid heavy scrutiny from Congress over the mishaps that led to the attack.
Current Developments
The FBI has joined the investigation into this latest incident. Sheriff Bradshaw disclosed in a recent press conference that the suspect managed to get within 300 to 500 yards of Trump while armed with a likely AK-47-style rifle. He explained that due to the surrounding shrubbery, individuals can easily become concealed.
“The Secret Service did exactly what should have been done,” Bradshaw remarked, stating that Routh abandoned his firearm, scope, and other belongings before fleeing. Police later apprehended him while he was driving 37 miles away from the golf course.
Routh’s social media presence suggests a strong pro-Ukraine stance, with reports indicating he traveled there soon after the conflict began in 2022. However, authorities have yet to determine a motive behind his actions.
In a quote to CNN, Routh’s son portrayed him as a loving father, hoping the situation was exaggerated. “It doesn’t sound like the man I know to do anything crazy, much less violent,” he stated.
According to spokesperson Barros, “Former President Donald Trump is safe and unhurt following a protective incident at the Trump International Golf Club around 2 p.m. Sunday,” confirming that Secret Service personnel had opened fire on a gunman near the property.
This story is ongoing and will be updated with new information as it emerges.