WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, (DIYA TV)– Former President Donald Trump was the target of an apparent assassination attempt on Sunday at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach. This is the second attempt on the life of the 45th president in just two months. The FBI is leading the investigation, while local and state authorities are also assisting.
According to reports, agents stationed near the golf course saw the muzzle of an AK-style rifle emerge from nearby bushes. Reacting quickly, agents positioned just a few holes away from Trump opened fire on the suspected gunman. However, the suspect fled the scene in an SUV.
In his hurry, he abandoned the rifle, two backpacks, a scope, and a GoPro camera. Shortly after, authorities apprehended the suspect, identified as Ryan Wesley Routh, in Martin County, north of Palm Beach.
Despite the danger, Trump remained unharmed. He reassured his supporters in an email, stating, “I AM SAFE AND WELL!” Furthermore, he thanked the Secret Service and local law enforcement for their quick action. The incident occurred while Trump was golfing between holes five and six.
This recent attack comes just months after a similar incident on July 13, when Trump narrowly escaped a shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. That attack, in particular, had significant political consequences. It led to Democratic President Joe Biden dropping out of the race, resulting in Vice President Kamala Harris becoming the party’s nominee.
After Sunday’s attack, both Biden and Harris condemned political violence and vowed to support Trump’s security.
The suspect, Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, had posted online comments supporting Biden and attacking Trump. Additionally, he had organized Afghan soldiers to serve in Ukraine, which had already attracted the attention of the FBI. As a result, authorities are now investigating his motives in greater detail.
Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the state would conduct its own investigation. He emphasized the need to understand how Routh was able to get so close to the former president
At the same time, the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) are continuing their inquiries.
In response to the incident, the Secret Service has increased security around Trump. Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe even traveled to Florida to personally oversee the situation. Furthermore, both Biden and Harris reiterated their support for the Secret Service’s efforts to protect all former presidents.
Despite this latest attempt on his life, Trump has continued with his busy schedule. After returning to his Mar-a-Lago estate, he is set to make several public appearances. These include talks on cryptocurrency and campaign stops in Michigan and Long Island.
Although additional security measures like bulletproof glass at rallies are in place, this incident underscores the persistent risks high-profile political figures face.
