President Donald Trump narrowly avoided an assassination attempt on September 15, 2024, while at Trump International Golf Club. Ryan Routh, 58, from Hawaii, was arrested after trying to approach Trump with an AK-47 rifle and a GoPro camera.
Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw reported that Routh was located between 300 and 500 yards from President Trump when Secret Service agents intervened. It is unclear whether Routh discharged his weapon. The Secret Service’s quick response prevented any harm to the president.
Sheriff Bradshaw criticized the golf course’s security measures, stating that they were inadequate for President Trump’s protection. “If Trump were the sitting president, we would have secured the entire golf course,” Bradshaw remarked.
Following the incident, President Trump reassured his supporters with a statement: “I am SAFE AND WELL! Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER!”
Routh’s political donations indicate a past alignment with Democrats like Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and former Rep. Beto O’Rourke (D-TX).
Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH), President Trump’s running mate, expressed relief that Trump was unharmed. This event follows a similar assassination attempt in July, underscoring the continued threats faced by Trump.
The FBI is investigating the incident, and increased security measures are anticipated for future events involving President Trump. The public should stay clear of the golf course as authorities continue their investigation.
