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The US Sun
Sniper killed by Secret Service after attempted assassination of Donald Trump at rally left one attendee dead
By Charlotte Maracina,
2 days ago
DONALD Trump was rushed off stage by the Secret Service after an assassination attempt left his face bloodied while speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania.
The former president pumped his fist in the air after the shots and was seen leaving the rally and being rushed to the hospital, where his team announced that he was doing okay.
Shots were fired at a rally for Donald Trump Saturday evening Reuters Following the gunshots, blood could be seen running down his face AP:Associated Press The former president instantly hit the ground after the shots went off Trump pumped his fist in the air as he was rushed off the stage AP:Associated Press
The Secret Service confirmed the shooter is dead, one audience member was killed, and two were critically injured.
The Secret Service said in a statement, “the former president is safe and being evaluated.”
“The incident is currently under investigation and the Secret Service has formally notified the Federal Bureau of Investigation,” the statement concluded.
Trump dove behind the podium then was seen grabbing his face and ear as he was swarmed by the Secret Service in Butler, Pennsylvania .
The crowd panicked as some audience members shouted, “Get down!” while the shots went off.
Video footage shows the Secret Service rushing the presidential candidate into his SUV.
The Secret Service immediately protected the former president Getty The Secret Service posted that they are investigating the incident Getty Trump’s campaign thanked the Secret Service and reported that he is “fine” Getty One member from the crowd has been reported to be dead AP
As Trump was being rushed off stage, he could be heard repeating, “Let me get my shoes.”
“An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe,” a statement by The Secret Service read.
“This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.”
Donald Trump Rally Shooting Timeline
Donald Trump was shot at his Pennsylvania rally on July 13.
1pm: Doors open at the Butler Farm Show grounds where Trump was expected to speak at 5pm.
4:11pm: Sean Parnell gave the opening speech.
4:35pm: David McCormick rallied the crowd.
5:30pm: Crowds were still waiting for Trump.
6:03pm: Trump takes the stage.
6:11pm: Gunshots were fired as Trump delivered remarks.
6:12pm: Trump was ushered off stage by Secret Service agents.
6:42pm: Secret Service confirmed Trump is safe.
7:24pm: The shooter and one rally attendee are confirmed dead by law enforcement officials.
8:42pm: Trump confirms he was shot in the ear, sharing a statement on Truth Social.
8:49pm: The Secret Service confirms the shooter and a rally attendee are dead. Two others remain critically injured.
What we know so far:
A shooter has opened fire at a Donald Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, killing one, critically injuring two others, and wounding the former president.
Gunfire broke out during the Republican frontrunner’s speech at around 6.15pm EST on Saturday evening.
The shooter was killed by Secret Service agents.
The shooter has not been officially identified, but the New York Post has named him as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20.
President Joe Biden has condemned the shooting as “sick,” and has suspended campaigning for the next two days. He has also shared a phone conversation with Donald Trump.
President Trump was rushed to hospital Saturday evening but was later released and has left Pennsylvania.
The FBI has confirmed this was an “assassination attempt,” but said there was no prior threat.
Trump’s team has confirmed he will be traveling to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention next week.
TRUMP TALKS
Trump’s son Donald Trump Jr., told ABC News that his father is “in good spirits” and is “never gonna stop.”
“President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act,” the campaign said.
Shortly after the shooting, Trump himself released a statement.
“I want to thank the United States Secret Service and all of the Law Enforcement for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania,” Trump began.
“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.”
Trump detailed the incident, saying he was shot “with a bullet that pierced the upper part of” his ear.
“Much bleeding took place so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!”
Trump confirmed he was shot in the ear and is doing well Reuters Trump also confirmed the shooter was shot dead by the Secret Service Pixel8000
Donald Trump's Full Statement Post-Rally Shooting
Former president Donald Trump provided an update on Truth Social after the shooting that took place at his Pennsylvania rally on July 13.
“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.
“It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.
“I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. 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!”
BIDEN COMMENTS
President Biden hosted a press conference Saturday night, wishing the former president the best and condemning the violence.
“I plan on talking to him shortly, I hope when I get back to the telephone,” Biden said in the brief conference.
“Look, there’s no place in America for this kind of violence. It’s sick.
“Everybody must condemn it. I’ll keep you informed.”
President Joe Biden addressed the nation a couple hours after the attack AP Biden said he hoped to speak to the former president soon AFP
The president said he will inform the public if, and when, he gets into contact with Trump.
When asked if he believed the attack was an assassination attempt, Biden responded, “I have an opinion but I don’t have any facts.”
Due to the assassination attempt, President Biden’s campaign team announced they will be pulling the president’s election campaign ads.
“The Biden campaign is pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible,” the Biden campaign told Fox.
Donald Trump Rally Security
Donald Trump was reportedly shot at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday, July 13.
Trump’s rally was held at the Butler Farm Grounds, which can hold tens of thousands of people.
There were 8-10 metal detectors at the grounds, according to Former USUN Ambassador Kip Tom.
Tom told CNN that anyone within a certain distance of the president was required to enter through those metal detectors.
Despite being held at an open fairground, the rally was fenced-in, meaning a perimeter was set up.
Counter snipers from the Secret Service were stationed in the area to monitor the perimeter.
In addition to metal detectors for the public, plus local and state police, the Secret Service is assigned to protect the president.
Secret Service agents immediately jumped to cover Trump after he appeared to be shot.
“We have practiced for these situations thousands of times,” Jonathan Wackrow, former agent, told CNN.
CNN also reported that the Secret Service shot and killed the reported shooter.
The FBI assumed the larger investigation of the shooting, working in tandem with the Secret Service.
Vice President Kamala Harris also shared a statement informing Americans that she has been briefed on the incident and is praying for the former president.
“We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting,” she wrote.
“Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.”
PEERS REACT
Former president Barack Obama released a statement wishing the best for his successor and condoned any political violence.
“There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy,” Obama wrote.
“Although we don’t know exactly what happened yet, we should all be relived that former president Trump wasn’t seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.
“Michelle and I wish him a quick recovery.”
Fellow former Democratic president Bill Clinton also posted a statement on X.
“Violence has no place in America, especially in our political process. Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at today’s rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service,” Clinton wrote.
Trump supporters attending the rally panicked when the shots sounded and could be heard shouting, “Get down” AFP Both republican and democratic party members are sharing their hope for the president’s quick recovery and thanks for the Secret Service’s response AP Trump thanked the Secret Service for their fast reaction AP
Trump’s former vice president Mike Pence posted on X that he and his wife are “praying” for the business mogul.
“Karen and I are praying for President Trump and urge every American to join us,” Pence wrote.
Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro also posted on X condemning the violence that occurred at the rally.
“Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable,” Shapiro posted.
“It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.
“I have been briefed on the situation. @PAStatePolice are on the scene in Butler County and working with our federal and local partners.”
Donald Trump Rally Shooting Reaction
Dozens of politicians and celebrities have offered their support for the former president after he was reportedly grazed by gunfire at his Pennsylvania rally on July 13.
President Biden held a brief press conference just after 8 pm ET. He said he was hoping to speak to Trump.
“Look, there’s no place in America for this kind of violence. It’s sick,” the president continued. “We cannot condone this.”
Vice President Harris said she was “relieved” Trump was not seriously injured.
“Violence such as this has no place in our nation,” she continued.
Former President Obama said on X: “There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy.
“Although we don’t yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasn’t seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.
Donald Trump, Jr shared a photo of his father raising a fist moments after he was shot with the caption: “He’ll never stop fighting to Save America.”
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr said: “Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family.”
Tesla CEO Elon Musk said: “I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery.”
Britain’s new Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer took to X to say: “I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump’s rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.
“Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.”
Reform leader and newly elected MP Nigel Farage said it is a “miracle” that his friend is still alive.
Farage told Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips: “I was very upset when I heard the news late last night, Donald Trump survived by a miracle, frankly.
“But one innocent man is dead, two are fighting for their lives in hospital. It’s horrible, and yet somehow not surprising.”
Former PM Boris Johnson also gave his condolences to Trump and his family as he said it shows “the tragic fragility of democracy in the face of violence and unreason”.
Ukrainian PM Volodymyr Zelensky, who has been a target for assassins in the past, also said he was “appalled” by the events in the US.
“Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail,” he said on X.
“I extend my wishes for strength to everyone who is horrified by this event. I wish America emerges stronger from this.”
Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also shared his prayers for his competition.
“Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family,” Kennedy wrote.
Tesla founder Elon Musk instantly posted his support for the president on X.
“I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery,” Musk wrote.
Fellow Republican party members immediately reacted to the news of the shooting.
“Praying for President Trump and everyone at the rally in Pennsylvania. May God watch over them all,” Senator Tim Scott posted on X.
North Dakota Senator Doug Burgum posted, “Please join Kathryn and me in praying for President Trump, his family and everyone attending the rally today.”
“We all know President Trump is stronger than his enemies. Today he showed it,” he wrote in a follow-up post.
The incident has drawn major international attention from other world leaders.
Israeli president Benjamin Netanyahu said he is “shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump,” news outlet The Spectator Index reported on X.
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