Former President Donald Trump was wounded and whisked away from his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania at about 6:pm Eastern time this afternoon. A spectator is reported killed, as well as the gunman, who fired multiple shots from an elevated position, according to the Secret Service. Two other spectators were also injured.
The shooter was apparently killed by a Secret Service counter sniper team immediately after the assassination attempt.
Trump was described as in good spirits at a local hospital as he remained under observation.
The FBI is now on the scene and has begun an investigation.
Trump is seen in a photo circulated on X with a raised fist and blood on his face as he is whisked off the stage.
READ: Prayers expressed for Trump and victims of assassination attempt
Trump issued a statement shortly after the incident.
“I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!”
Former Attorney General Bill Barr reacted to the shooting by condemning Democrats and others who have labeled the former president an “existential threat to democracy.”
“The Democrats have to stop their grossly irresponsible talk about Trump being an existential threat to democracy. He is not,” Barr said.
–Lee Hartman | Metro Voice