A rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, was abruptly interrupted by what sounded like gunshots, leading to a swift evacuation of former President Donald Trump from the stage. Witnesses reported hearing multiple loud pops, prompting Secret Service agents to quickly escort Trump to safety. Eyewitnesses noted seeing blood on Trump’s ear as he was ushered into his motorcade.
Despite the chaos, Trump raised his fist defiantly to the crowd, which responded with applause. Reports indicated that security personnel chased an individual from the left side of the bleachers, where caution tape has since been placed by police.
Ron Moose, a rally attendee from New Castle, Pennsylvania, remarked, “I saw blood on his ear,” highlighting the gravity of the situation. As the crowd began to disperse, law enforcement worked to secure the area, and visible blood was observed on the bleachers.
President Joe Biden, who had just left church, stated he had not yet received a briefing on the incident. Prominent Republican figures, including Senators Marco Rubio and J.D. Vance, as well as North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, expressed their prayers and support for Trump and the rally attendees via social media. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson also voiced his prayers for the former president.
In a statement, Trump spokesman Steven Cheung confirmed that Trump is “fine” and receiving medical evaluation at a local facility. Cheung thanked law enforcement and first responders for their rapid response to the situation. Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi added that Trump is safe and further details about the incident are forthcoming.
The incident has drawn condemnation from political leaders across the spectrum. Democratic Senate candidate Ruben Gallego described the events as “absolutely horrible” and stressed that political violence must never be tolerated.
In the aftermath, two fatalities have been reported, including the suspect involved in the attack, according to the county prosecutor. Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., took to social media, declaring that his father will “never stop fighting to Save America.”
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed his horror over the incident while conveying relief that Trump is safe. The White House confirmed that President Biden has received an initial briefing regarding the events at the rally.
