Former President Donald Trump was injured during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, after being shot in the ear in what is being investigated as an assassination attempt. The incident occurred on Saturday evening while Trump was on stage, prompting immediate action by the Secret Service and law enforcement.
At approximately 6:15 p.m. ET, while Trump was delivering a speech, multiple gunshots were fired from a nearby rooftop, striking him in the ear. Secret Service agents quickly moved to protect him, advising him to get down as they coordinated a response to the gunfire. Despite the chaotic scene, which included further gunshots and loud screams from the crowd, the shooter was neutralized within minutes.
Trump, although injured, managed to acknowledge the crowd briefly by raising his fist and mouthing the word “fight” before being escorted to safety. The rally was thrown into disarray, with attendees and officials seeking cover.
The incident tragically resulted in the death of one rally attendee and critical injuries to two others. The FBI is close to identifying the shooter, who was killed by Secret Service during the incident. Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive behind the attack.
President Joe Biden has condemned the violence, describing it as “sick” and emphasizing that such acts have no place in America. He, along with other leaders and lawmakers, has called for unity and a reaffirmation of peaceful political engagement.
The event has sparked widespread reaction, with many expressing shock and concern over the implications for political safety and security. Law enforcement remains on high alert as they investigate the full circumstances of the attack.