Donald Trump survives second assassination attempt near Florida golf course, FBI investigates

During a press briefing on Sunday, West Palm Beach Sheriff Ric Bradshaw confirmed that shots were fired by Secret Service agents at around 1:30 PM ET.

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Edited By: Sonia Dham
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Donald Trump (ANI)

The FBI is actively investigating what it describes as "an attempted assassination" after gunfire was reported near former President Donald Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida. According to CNN, the incident occurred earlier in the day, but Trump’s campaign assured the public that the former president is "safe and well."

This latest event follows a previous attempt on Trump’s life just two months ago at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The recurrence of such incidents raises significant concerns about the security provided by the U.S. Secret Service.

During a press briefing on Sunday, West Palm Beach Sheriff Ric Bradshaw confirmed that shots were fired by Secret Service agents at around 1:30 PM ET. The suspect, who was allegedly carrying a rifle, was engaged by an agent and arrested shortly afterward. Sheriff Bradshaw revealed that the suspect was approximately 300-500 yards away from Trump when the incident occurred.

“We were fortunate enough to have a witness come forward who reported seeing the suspect fleeing the scene. The witness also captured a photo of the suspect’s vehicle and license plate, which greatly assisted in the investigation,” Bradshaw said.

The Martin County Sheriff’s Office has taken the suspect into custody. Although the situation was alarming, Trump quickly reassured his supporters of his safety.

"There were gunshots in my vicinity, but before rumors start spiraling out of control, I wanted you to hear this first: I AM SAFE AND WELL!" Trump wrote in a fundraising email.

Trump’s running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance, expressed relief on social media, stating, "I'm glad President Trump is safe. I spoke to him, and he was in good spirits."

Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina also spoke with Trump after the incident, commenting, "He is one of the strongest people I’ve ever known. He’s more resolved than ever to save our country."

This incident follows an earlier assassination attempt in July at a Pennsylvania rally, where Trump narrowly escaped injury after a gunman opened fire, resulting in casualties among the attendees.