Former President Donald Trump narrowly escaped a second assassination attempt at his West Palm Beach golf club, as authorities thwarted a plot involving a heavily armed suspect.
At a Glance
- A second assassination attempt on Trump was foiled at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida.
- The suspect, Ryan Routh, 58, from Hawaii, was armed with a scoped AK-47 rifle and positioned 300-500 yards from Trump.
- A Secret Service agent spotted Routh and opened fire, causing him to flee before he was later apprehended.
- Trump confirmed his safety and well-being in a statement to supporters.
- The FBI is leading an ongoing investigation into the incident.
Assassination Plot Uncovered
In a shocking turn of events, authorities thwarted a second plot to assassinate former President Donald Trump during his golf outing at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida. The incident, which occurred on September 15, 2024, marks the second attempt on Trump’s life in just two months, raising serious concerns about the security measures surrounding the former president.
According to Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, the suspect, identified as 58-year-old Ryan Routh from Hawaii, was discovered near a chain-link fence approximately 300-500 yards away from Trump’s location. Routh had set up what authorities described as a “sniper’s nest,” complete with a scoped AK-47 rifle and a GoPro camera, presumably to record the intended attack.
Swift Action by Secret Service
The situation could have ended tragically if not for the quick actions of a Secret Service agent who spotted Routh and immediately opened fire. This prompt response caused the would-be assassin to flee the scene, averting a potentially catastrophic outcome. Sheriff Bradshaw emphasized the seriousness of the threat, stating, “with a rifle and scope like that is not a long distance.”
Following the incident, a multi-agency manhunt was launched, leading to Routh’s arrest on Interstate 95. Martin County Sheriff William D. Snyder confirmed, “There was a lone driver in the vehicle. That driver is now in custody.” The suspect’s apprehension brought a sense of relief to law enforcement and Trump supporters alike.
Trump’s Response and Ongoing Investigation
In the aftermath of the incident, Trump quickly addressed his supporters via his campaign website, confirming his safety and reaffirming his determination to continue his political pursuits. “Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER!” Trump declared, demonstrating his resilience in the face of this latest threat.
The FBI has taken the lead in the ongoing investigation, treating the incident as an “attempted assassination.” This classification underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential implications for national security. The Secret Service and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s office are also actively involved in the investigation, working to uncover any potential broader conspiracy or additional threats.
