Attempted Assassination of Donald Trump: What’s in?

Former U.S. President Donald Trump was swiftly escorted off stage by the Secret Service following a shooting at a rally in Pennsylvania earlier today. The attack resulted in the deaths of the alleged shooter and one attendee, and left Trump with a bloodied ear.

The incident occurred shortly after Trump began his speech in the swing state. He was seen clutching his ear and falling to the ground before being surrounded by security agents. Video footage captured a Secret Service agent stating, “shooter is down.”

Despite the injury, Trump stood up, his ear bloodied and blood smeared on his cheek, and urged his supporters to “fight” while pumping his fist, before being rushed off stage.

The U.S. Secret Service confirmed Trump’s safety, and his campaign team reported he was receiving treatment at a local medical facility. “The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe,” spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi announced on social media. He added that the incident is under active investigation.

Steven Cheung, Trump campaign’s communications director, expressed gratitude for the swift response by law enforcement and first responders. “President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility,” Cheung stated.

Eyewitness accounts described chaotic scenes. John Yeykal, speaking to AFP, said he saw “a lot of people go down, looking confused,” adding that the gunfire sounded like “firecrackers or a small caliber handgun.” Another witness, identified as Greg, told BBC News he heard five shots from a rooftop where a man was seen with a rifle. Greg reported that Secret Service agents neutralized the shooter.

Butler County District Attorney Richard A. Goldinger confirmed to the Associated Press that the shooter and one attendee were killed.

The rally, held in Butler, Pennsylvania, had only just begun when the attack took place. Trump’s rallies typically feature stringent security measures coordinated by the Secret Service and local authorities.

President Joe Biden responded nearly 90 minutes after the attack, expressing relief at Trump’s safety. “I’m grateful to hear that he’s safe and doing well,” Biden said in a statement. “I’m praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. There’s no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.”

Global leaders also extended their support to Trump. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his shock, stating, “Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery.” Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir also posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, writing, “God Bless Trump.”