Former US President Donald Trump was the target of a second apparent assassination attempt on Sunday.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) confirmed the incident after gunshots were reported outside the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, where Trump was playing a round of golf.
Steven Cheung, Trump’s Campaign Communications Director, assured the public of Trump’s safety shortly after the shots were fired.
"President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity. No further details at this time," Cheung said in a statement.
Trump himself addressed his supporters, stating: "There were gunshots in my vicinity, but before rumours start spiralling out of control, I wanted you to hear this first: I AM SAFE AND WELL! Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER!"
The suspect, identified by law enforcement as Ryan Wesley Routh, was taken into custody after reportedly aiming a rifle with a scope towards the golf course. The Secret Service responded to the threat immediately, with agents opening fire when they spotted Routh near the course.
The FBI has since launched an investigation into what is being treated as an attempted assassination.
"We are investigating what appears to be an attempted assassination of former President Trump," a spokesperson for the agency stated.
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were promptly briefed on the situation. "The President and Vice President have been briefed about the security incident at the Trump International Golf Course, where former President Trump was golfing. They are relieved to know that he is safe," said a White House statement.
The Trump Campaign headquarters, located on the same campus, was placed under lockdown as security measures were heightened.
Sources close to the matter informed that the shots were believed to have been aimed directly at Trump.
"Officials believe the shots fired at Trump International Golf Club were intended for former President Donald Trump," according to the report.
Senator Lindsey Graham, after speaking with Trump, said: "Just spoke with President Trump. He is one of the strongest people I’ve ever known. He’s in good spirits and he is more resolved than ever to save our country."
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