Butler, Pennsylvania: Former US President Donald Trump shared a harrowing account of being shot at during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump stated that a bullet pierced the upper part of his right ear, causing immediate pain and bleeding. He expressed gratitude to the US Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift action and extended condolences to the families of the deceased and injured.
Details of the Incident
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, “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.”
He further described the incident: “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.”
Immediate Response and Aftermath
The shooting occurred just months before the 2024 US presidential elections, disrupting Trump’s rally on Saturday. Videos circulating on social media showed Trump being escorted off stage by Secret Service agents, with visible bleeding from his ear. He was taken to Butler Memorial Hospital and later transported to an undisclosed location, though he was initially scheduled to travel to his estate in Bedminster, New Jersey, and then to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention.
Statement from US Secret Service
The US Secret Service reported that the shooter fired multiple shots from an elevated position outside the rally venue at around 6:15 p.m. local time. The shooter was neutralized by Secret Service personnel and is now deceased. One spectator was killed, and another critically injured. The incident is under investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has been notified.
Official Remarks
Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the US Secret Service, shared a statement on X, expressing gratitude for the swift action of the Secret Service and law enforcement partners. He extended thoughts to the families affected by the tragedy.
Law enforcement sources told CBS News that the shooter used an AR-style rifle from 200-300 feet away, positioned on top of a shed outside the security perimeter set by the Secret Service.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, raising concerns about the safety of public figures during campaign events as the 2024 presidential election approaches.
Discover more from The Doon Mozaic
Subscribe to get the latest posts to your email.