BUTLER, PA – Chaos erupted at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday when shots were fired, prompting Secret Service agents to swiftly escort former President Donald Trump off the stage.
Investigators are treating the incident, which occurred on the eve of the Republican National Convention, as a potential assassination attempt. The shots were reportedly fired from a distance outside the secured perimeter of the event.
According to the Secret Service, the shooter fired multiple rounds from an elevated position outside the rally venue. Agents swiftly neutralized the threat, and the shooter was declared deceased.
Eyewitnesses described the gunman using an AR-style rifle and firing up to eight shots from a rooftop approximately 200-300 yards away. The attack resulted in one spectator’s death and left two others critically injured.
Trump, who appeared to have blood on his right ear, was seen mouthing “fight” and pumping his fist as he was quickly led off the stage. A spokesperson later confirmed that Trump was unharmed and undergoing a medical evaluation.
In a Truth Social post, Trump recounted the incident, stating that a bullet had grazed the upper part of his right ear. He expressed his sorrow for the deceased rallygoer and condemned the violent act.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and support from political figures. President Joe Biden called the attack “sick” and emphasized that such violence is unacceptable in America. Vice President Kamala Harris expressed relief that Trump was not seriously injured and called for unity against violence.
The rally turned chaotic as Trump was speaking about immigration. Attendees reported hearing several gunshots, causing panic and prompting people to drop to the ground. Security personnel quickly secured the area and ensured Trump’s safety.
Following the incident, there was a heavy police presence outside Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club in Florida. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and other political leaders condemned the violence, stressing that such acts are unacceptable.