Donald Trump Thanks Secret Service and Law Enforcement After Foiled Assassination Attempt
Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed gratitude to the U.S. Secret Service and law enforcement officials following an apparent assassination attempt while he was golfing at his Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on September 15, 2024. The incident, which the FBI is investigating as an attempted assassination, occurred just two months after another attempt on Trump's life during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania
Incident Details
On Sunday afternoon, while Trump was on the golf course, Secret Service agents noticed a rifle barrel protruding from the bushes near the property line. The agents quickly responded, firing at least four rounds at the suspect, identified as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh from Hawaii. Routh was reportedly between 400 to 500 yards away from Trump when he was spotted aiming an AK-47-style assault rifle toward the golf course
As agents engaged the gunman, Routh dropped his weapon and fled the scene in a black SUV, leaving behind two backpacks and a GoPro camera. Witnesses were able to capture images of his vehicle and license plate, which aided law enforcement in his subsequent capture in a neighboring county shortly after the incident
Trump's Response
Following the alarming event, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to reassure his supporters and thank those who had expressed concern for his safety. “I would like to thank everyone for your concern and well wishes — It was certainly an interesting day!” he wrote. He emphasized his appreciation for the quick actions of the Secret Service and local law enforcement: “Most importantly, I want to thank the U.S. Secret Service, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw and his Office of brave and dedicated Patriots, and all of Law Enforcement for the incredible job done today at Trump International in keeping me safe."
Trump described the response as "absolutely outstanding" and reiterated his pride in being an American during these challenging times
Law Enforcement's Account
Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw confirmed that law enforcement acted swiftly to neutralize the threat. He stated that Routh had not fired any shots at Trump during the incident but had aimed his weapon toward him. The sheriff praised the Secret Service for their rapid response and indicated that they had followed protocol effectively
The FBI has since joined local authorities in investigating Routh’s background and motives for targeting Trump. Reports suggest that authorities are examining Routh's social media activity and any potential grievances he may have had regarding Trump's political positions
Political Reactions
The incident has drawn attention from various political figures. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed on the situation and expressed relief that Trump was unharmed. Biden emphasized that there is no place for political violence in America and reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the Secret Service has all necessary resources to protect former presidents
This latest attempt on Trump's life raises serious concerns about security for public figures in today's politically charged climate. The former president's security measures have been significantly enhanced since a previous assassination attempt in July when a gunman opened fire during a rally in Pennsylvania, narrowly missing Trump.
