A rally in Pennsylvania became the scene of chaos and violence as former President Donald Trump was targeted in an apparent assassination attempt while addressing thousands at a campaign event on Saturday, shaking the foundation of the presidential race just months before the election.
During the rally at the Butler Farm Show, Trump was suddenly struck in the ear by gunfire, resulting in his face being streaked with blood. Secret Service agents swiftly swarmed to protect him, and despite the chaos, Trump reemerged to address his supporters, urging them to “Fight! Fight! Fight!” with a bloody face and a raised fist. The campaign later confirmed that the former president was “fine” and was undergoing medical evaluation at a local facility.
According to US law enforcement officials, a suspected gunman opened fire from an elevated position outside the rally venue. The suspected shooter was subsequently engaged and neutralized by the Secret Service’s counterassault team, which specialized in dealing with active threats. Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger confirmed that the gunman was dead, and the chaos also claimed the life of at least one rally attendee, with two others critically injured.
Trump described the moment on his Truth social media platform: a bullet “pierced the upper part of my right ear,” leading to significant bleeding. He detailed hearing the whizzing of bullets and “knew immediately that something was wrong.” A polarizing figure in US politics, Trump is set to be officially nominated as the Republican candidate at the upcoming convention.
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His probable Democrat counterpart, President Joe Biden, condemned the violence, highlighting that there is “no place in America for this type of violence.” He refrained from labeling it an assassination attempt, pending further information, but expressed deep concern over the events.
Other global leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other Israeli officials, have expressed their shock and concern over the attack. Netanyahu tweeted his prayers for Trump’s safety and swift recovery, highlighting the deep personal and political connections between the two leaders. Israel’s far-right National Security Minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing support for Trump with a heartfelt social media post: “God bless Trump,” accompanied by a heart emoji.
Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery.
— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) July 13, 2024 [3]