Written by Michael Thompson.

Donald Trump, while addressing a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, was seemingly the target of an assassination attempt. The former president was seen with his ear bleeding, which he later stated was due to a gunshot. Swift actions by the Secret Service ensured his safety, and his campaign reassured the public that he was unharmed.

Local authorities confirmed that the suspected shooter, along with one rally attendee, were killed during the incident. The Secret Service reported that two other spectators sustained critical injuries. Trump, via his Truth Social platform, described the event, saying a bullet “pierced the upper part of my right ear.” He recounted the immediate realization of the situation upon hearing the whizzing sound and feeling the bullet tear through his skin, resulting in significant bleeding.

This alarming incident marks the first assassination attempt on a presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan’s shooting in 1981. Occurring just four months before the presidential elections and days ahead of the Republican National Convention, the attack highlights the intense political climate. Trump’s spokesperson, Steven Cheung, expressed gratitude towards law enforcement and first responders, affirming that Trump was being examined at a local medical facility.

Chaos at the Rally Venue

The Secret Service revealed that the assailant fired from an elevated position outside the rally venue. Trump’s immediate evacuation by the Secret Service was confirmed, with the agency stating, “Trump is safe and being evaluated.” President Joe Biden condemned the violence, emphasizing that such actions have no place in America. Anonymous officials disclosed to The Associated Press that the shooter was not a rally attendee and was neutralized by the Secret Service’s counterassault team.

The sequence of events remains under investigation, with uncertainty about whether Trump was directly hit by gunfire or injured during the protective measures taken by the agents. Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger confirmed the death of the suspected gunman and at least one rally attendee. The rally, meant to showcase border crossing statistics, descended into chaos when the gunshots rang out just after 6:10 p.m.

As Trump presented his chart, a popping sound was heard, prompting him to touch his right ear. This was followed by additional pops, causing Trump to crouch down as agents tackled him for protection. The crowd of thousands erupted in screams, with one woman’s voice standing out among the rest. The situation quickly escalated as agents secured the stage and searched for the threat. Amid the confusion, Trump could be heard repeatedly asking for his shoes while being escorted to safety.

The Aftermath and Reactions

Trump’s motorcade swiftly departed the venue, with video footage showing him raising his fist to the crowd before entering a vehicle. Reporters at the scene reported hearing five or six shots, prompting many to seek cover. Initially, the crowd mistook the sounds for firecrackers or a car backfiring. However, as the realization of gunfire set in, panic spread, and calls to “Get down!” echoed through the venue.

Attendees began to leave once it was clear Trump would not return to the stage. In the aftermath, two firefighters from nearby Steubenville, Ohio, assisted those injured and recounted hearing bullets striking broadcast speakers. They described the bullets as not very loud but unmistakably lethal, causing chaos as people sought cover.

The event echoed past instances of political violence in America, recalling the urgency of candidate protection seen after the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy and the shooting of George Wallace. The Biden administration was briefed on the incident, with President Biden expressing a desire to speak with Trump and offering his best wishes for Trump’s recovery. In solidarity, the Biden campaign paused its messaging and pulled down advertisements following the shooting.

Trump Jr. shared an image of his father, bloodied but defiant, on social media, symbolizing his relentless spirit. Prominent Republicans, including North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, Florida Senator Marco Rubio, and Ohio Senator JD Vance, quickly voiced their concern and support for Trump. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro condemned the violence, reinforcing that such acts have no place in society.

The Shooter Identified

The shooter is identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, opening fire at former President Donald Trump before being shot. In the background, a woman can be heard yelling Crooks, “What are you doing?! Get over here!” His pronouns are “was/were.”

#BREAKING: New video obtained by TMZ shows the shooter, reportedly identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, opening fire at former President Donald Trump before being shot. In the background, a woman can be heard yelling Crooks, what are you doing?! Get over here! pic.twitter.com/q3xiySmHSk

— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) July 14, 2024

Our Take

Political violence threatens the very foundation of democracy. This recent attempt on Trump’s life underscores the dangers faced by public figures and the increasing polarization in America. It’s imperative to foster a political environment where dialogue prevails over violence. The public must condemn such acts unequivocally to safeguard our democratic institutions and ensure the safety of all political leaders.