WEST PALM BEACH, FL – In a dramatic turn of events, former President Donald Trump was the target of a possible assassination attempt while golfing at his West Palm Beach course. The incident, which occurred just before 2 p.m. Eastern time, saw Secret Service agents spring into action when they noticed a man near the course with a rifle. Trump was unharmed and quickly taken to safety, later returning to his Mar-a-Lago residence.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Ryan Wes Ralph, a man in his late 50s. Ralph was apprehended without resistance after a brief pursuit. An AK-47 style rifle equipped with a scope was found at the scene.
Trump addressed the incident in a statement, confirming that shots were fired in his vicinity but reassuring that he is safe. Secret Service agents reportedly discharged at least four rounds at the suspect, though it’s unclear if the suspect fired back.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing a man flee into a black SUV. A quick-thinking witness captured a photo of the vehicle’s license plate, which led police to intercept an SUV with the same plate about 30 minutes north of the golf club. The witness later positively identified the suspect.
The Secret Service’s rapid response is being lauded as officials continue to investigate the motive behind the attempted attack. Trump had recently returned to Florida after a busy itinerary that included a rally in Las Vegas and a fundraiser in Utah.
This incident follows an attempt on Trump’s life two months ago at a Pennsylvania rally, where he was grazed by a bullet. The White House has confirmed that President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have been briefed on the incident and will receive ongoing updates as the investigation progresses.