Just nine weeks after surviving a shooting incident during an election rally, Donald Trump was targeted in another assassination attempt, according to the FBI. This latest incident occurred while Trump was playing golf at his Florida residence on Sunday, adding to the tension surrounding the former U.S. president’s campaign for the 2024 presidential election.
Secret Service Foils Attack
While Trump was on the golf course at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Secret Service agents noticed a suspicious figure hiding in the shrubbery about 400 yards away. They spotted a gun barrel sticking out from the foliage and swiftly took action. One agent shot at the would-be attacker, who fled the scene, leaving behind his weapon and other equipment, including a GoPro camera and two backpacks. The gunman was later arrested after a brief chase involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
Calm Attacker Shows No Emotion
The suspect, identified as Ryan Roth, was eventually apprehended in a neighboring county. Martin County Sheriff William Snyder stated that the suspect remained eerily calm throughout the arrest. “He never asked, ‘what is this about?’ despite the presence of law enforcement and flashing lights,” said Snyder. The man’s apparent indifference raised further concerns about his motives and mental state.
Trump’s Defiant Response
Despite the danger, Trump appeared unfazed by the assassination attempt. In an email to his supporters, he reassured them of his safety and determination: “I AM SAFE AND WELL,” he wrote, adding, “Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER.” Trump returned to Mar-a-Lago shortly after the incident.
This is the second time Trump has been a target. On July 13, he was grazed by a bullet during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Shortly after that event, President Joe Biden stepped down from the race, leaving Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic candidate for the upcoming election.
Political Reactions
Kamala Harris, Trump’s opponent in the 2024 presidential race, condemned the violence, stating that “violence has no place in America.” Both President Joe Biden and Vice President Harris were briefed on the incident, and the White House expressed relief over Trump’s safety.
Investigation Underway
The FBI is treating the incident as an attempted assassination and has launched a full investigation. The bureau, along with the Secret Service and local law enforcement, quickly coordinated efforts to apprehend the suspect. Sheriff Snyder described how his deputies “flooded” the highways to track down the attacker, eventually stopping him on a major interstate.
Final Thoughts
This second attempt on Trump’s life has added to the tension in an already highly charged political climate. As the investigation continues, security around the former president is expected to tighten, and law enforcement is working to uncover more details about the suspect’s motives and any potential connections.