Donald Trump Injured In Assassination Attempt At Rally; Shooter Among 2 Killed

Washington: Former US President Donald Trump, 78, was injured in an apparent assassination attempt during an election rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday. Trump was struck by a bullet in the upper part of his right ear, fired by a suspect using an AR-style rifle from an elevated position outside the venue. The attacker, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, killed one spectator and critically injured two others before being shot and killed by the Secret Service.

During the chaos, Secret Service agents quickly surrounded Trump, who was seen with blood on his right ear as he was escorted to safety. Despite the injury, Trump remained composed, even requesting, “Let me get my shoes,” before being led off stage. He later reassured supporters with a fist pump.

The FBI has launched an investigation, describing the incident as an attempted assassination. Kevin Rojek, the FBI special agent in charge of the Pittsburgh office, stated that the crime scene is active and the public’s assistance is sought for any relevant information.

Trump’s campaign confirmed he is “fine” and expressed gratitude towards law enforcement for their swift response. Trump addressed the incident on Truth Social, acknowledging his injury and expressing concern for the other victims. President Joe Biden, who spoke with Trump, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and Butler Mayor Bob Dandoy, condemned the violence, calling it “unheard of.”

The attack occurred just two days before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where Trump is set to be nominated as the party’s presidential candidate. Trump reaffirmed his commitment to attend the convention and continue his campaign.

Vice President Kamala Harris and former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton also condemned the attack. Harris expressed relief that Trump was not seriously injured and emphasized the need to denounce violence.