Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, has been identified as the prime suspect in a second assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
The incident took place on September 15, 2024, while Trump was enjoying a round of golf at Trump International Golf Course in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Secret Service agents noticed a rifle protruding from the bushes near the golf course, prompting them to investigate.
The suspect, later identified as Routh, was seen attempting to aim the weapon at Trump, who was about 400-500 yards away. After shots were heard, the suspect tried to flee the scene in an SUV but was apprehended by officials.
It remains unclear whether the suspect managed to fire any shots, as the Secret Service may have intervened.
A witness saw the suspect escaping in a black Nissan and promptly reported the incident to law enforcement, providing crucial information that led to Routh’s arrest.
Following the thwarted assassination attempt, Trump’s campaign spokesman reassured the public that the former president was safe.
Trump himself took to social media to address the situation, emphasizing that he was unharmed and expressing his determination to continue his activities without fear.
More details have emerged about Routh, who had previously resided in North Carolina before moving to Hawaii in 2018.
He and his son were reportedly involved in a shed-building company, and Routh had traveled to Ukraine in 2022 following the Russian invasion, advocating for increased US involvement.
Routh’s son, Oran, has defended his father, describing him as a loving and hardworking man who he believes is not capable of such violent actions.
Oran hopes that the situation has been blown out of proportion and that his father’s character will be portrayed accurately in the media.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, as Routh remains in custody facing potential charges related to the attempted assassination.
Trump has since returned to his golfing activities, undeterred by the ordeal.
