Butler, Pennsylvania — Former President Donald Trump was wounded in the ear during a campaign rally on Saturday, causing blood to streak across his face and prompting swift action from his security detail. Despite the attack, Trump defiantly raised his fist and chanted “Fight! Fight! Fight!”
The Secret Service reported that the assailant was deceased, one rally attendee was killed, and two others were injured. The incident is being investigated as an assassination attempt, with the FBI identifying 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks as the individual involved.
The shooting occurred as Trump, 78, had just begun his speech. After the shots rang out, he grasped his injured ear and briefly took cover behind the podium before Secret Service agents shielded him. Trump re-emerged moments later, his iconic red hat knocked off, and was swiftly escorted to safety in a black SUV.
Later, Trump addressed the incident on his Truth Social platform, confirming he had been hit in the upper part of his right ear and had experienced significant bleeding.
The attack, less than four months before the November election, where Trump is slated for a rematch with Democratic President Joe Biden, drew swift condemnation from leaders of both parties. Trump’s campaign assured the public he was “doing well,” while Biden emphasized the need for national unity against such violence.
The shooting has raised concerns about security protocols, particularly by the Secret Service responsible for protecting former presidents. This incident marks the first shooting involving a major US political figure since the 1981 attempt on President Ronald Reagan.
Eyewitnesses recounted the chaos as shots rang out, with Trump supporters and security personnel reacting swiftly to protect the former president. Reports suggested the gunfire originated from outside the secured area designated by the Secret Service. Both Republicans and Democrats denounced the violence, with many calling for a united front against political extremism. The incident has underscored fears of escalating political tensions and violence in the US.
Trump, who remains a central figure in Republican politics despite legal challenges and controversies, was reportedly en route to Bedminster, New Jersey, following the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. In conclusion, the attempted assassination of Donald Trump has sparked widespread concern and condemnation, prompting renewed focus on security measures for political figures ahead of the upcoming election.
In other news – 5 injured in Durban as vehicle collides with electricity box
Five individuals sustained critical injuries after their vehicle careened into an electricity box and wall on Main Road in Malvern, Durban, just before midnight last Friday.
According to Garrith Jamieson, spokesperson for ALS Paramedics, the scene was one of chaos upon their arrival. The vehicle had lost control, crashing into both the electricity box and a wall, resulting in all five occupants becoming severely trapped in the wreckage. Read More
