After gunfire erupted at his event in Butler, Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump was hurried offstage. In a social media post, Trump claimed to have been wounded when a bullet entered the top of his right ear.
Trump was evaluated at a nearby hospital before leaving a few hours later; the Secret Service claims he is now safe. Donald Trump Jr., Trump’s son, informed Robert Costa of CBS News that his dad is “doing fine.”
The U.S. Secret Service verified two spectators were badly injured, and two people—the gunman and an audience member—are deceased. According to state police, all of the gunshot victims were men; their names were withheld.
The agency claimed, “U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased.”
The Secret Service raced the stage, and reporters heard many rounds. CBS News videos show Trump stroking his ear and then stooping to the ground. He had some blood visible on his face. Trump was hauled off in a motorcade. Rising into the SUV, he raised a fist.
Incident Details
As the rally progressed, the sound of multiple gunshots caused panic among the attendees. Trump’s Secret Service detail swiftly escorted him off the stage to ensure his safety. Initial reports indicated that Trump was unharmed, although there were observations of blood on his face, which was later clarified to be from a minor, unrelated injury.
Official Response
Local law enforcement and emergency services quickly responded to the scene. The Butler County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the fatalities and the injury, emphasizing that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the motive behind the shooting. Authorities are working to ensure the safety of future political events in the area.
Campaign and Public Reaction
The rally was a significant event in Trump’s campaign as he seeks re-election in a highly polarized political climate. The incident has raised concerns about security measures at political gatherings. Trump’s campaign team expressed gratitude for the swift action of the Secret Service and local law enforcement.
President Joe Biden, Trump’s opponent in the upcoming election, condemned the violence and called for unity and calm during the campaign season. Biden’s campaign emphasized the importance of peaceful political discourse and the safety of all candidates and attendees at political events.
Broader Implications
This tragic event underscores the heightened tensions and security risks associated with the 2024 presidential campaign. Both campaigns are likely to re-evaluate their security protocols in light of this incident. Political analysts suggest that this may influence voter sentiment and the overall atmosphere leading up to the election.
As the investigation continues, further details are expected to emerge, providing more clarity on the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
What Trump Says?
Trump elaborated on what happened and described his injuries:
“I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. God bless America!”
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