The second assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump was thwarted by quick-thinking authorities in Florida on Sunday. A witness snapped a photo of the suspect as he fled out of the bushes near Trump International Golf Course in West Palm Beach.
Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw revealed that a shots-fired call came in from the Secret Service, prompting law enforcement to seal off the area. Thanks to the witness’s photo of the suspect’s vehicle, authorities were able to track him down on I-95 and detain him in Martin County.
The suspect, identified as Ryan Wesley Routh, is scheduled to appear in federal court on Monday. Law enforcement recovered an AK-47-style rifle, backpacks with ceramic tile, and a GoPro camera from the bushes where the suspect was hiding.
Sheriff Bradshaw commended the Secret Service’s response but acknowledged the limited perimeter of protection around Trump. A representative for the Secret Service confirmed that Trump was safe and unharmed following the incident.
The FBI is leading the federal investigation and has deployed resources to support the case. Special Agent Jeffrey Veltri urged the public to avoid the area and assured that the FBI will continue to assist in the investigation.
This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing security threats faced by public figures, and the swift action taken by law enforcement to prevent harm.
