Attempted Assassination on Former President Trump During Pennsylvania Rally
In a shocking turn of events, former President Donald Trump was shot during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The incident occurred late Saturday afternoon, around 6:10 PM local time, as Trump had just begun his speech. Panic ensued as the gunshots rang out, prompting Secret Service agents to swiftly intervene.
Immediate Response and Aftermath
The Secret Service quickly neutralized the shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Despite the chaos, Trump managed to signal to his supporters by raising his fist before being whisked away to a nearby hospital. He was treated for a bullet wound that pierced the upper part of his right ear and was discharged later that evening. Trump expressed his gratitude to the security forces and extended his condolences to the families of the victims via his social media platform, Truth Social.
Reactions from Political Leaders and Public Figures
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders and public figures across the globe. President Joe Biden labeled the incident as 'disgusting political violence' and emphasized that such actions are unprecedented in the United States. Former President Barack Obama also condemned the violence, stating that there is no place for such acts in a democracy. International reactions included statements from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Honduran President Xiomara Castro de Zelaya, both expressing their shock and solidarity with Trump.
The FBI has launched an investigation into the assassination attempt, focusing on how the shooter managed to carry out the attack. The incident has raised concerns about the security measures at political events, especially as the country gears up for the upcoming presidential election.
