Trump had been golfing when the gunshots were heard. (File)
Florida:
Donald Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity, the Republican presidential candidate’s team said today. “President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity. No further details at this time,” campaign spokespersom Steven Cheung said a statement.
The shooting took place at Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida. A “person of interest” has been detained along with a weapon, the New York Times reported, citing local law enforcement officials.
Trump had been golfing when the gunshots were heard, multiple media reports said. Trump had been accompanied at the time by his Secret Service protective detail when shots were fired.
It was unclear who the shooter or shooters were, or what the motive was. There was no immediate indication that Trump had been targeted. Media outlet CNN, citing security agency own sources, reported that officials believed the shots at the golf club were indeed intended for Trump.
The former US president’s son Donald Trump Jr. said that authorities also found an AK-47 rifle in the bushes, extremely close to the spot from where Trump was leaving.
“Again folks! SHOTS FIRED at Trump Golf Course in West Palm Beach, Florida. An AK-47 was discovered in the bushes, per local law enforcement,” he said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Again folks!
SHOTS FIRED at Trump Golf Course in West Palm Beach, Florida.
An AK-47 was discovered in the bushes, per local law enforcement. The Trump campaign has released a statement confirming former President Trump is safe.
A suspect has reportedly been apprehended. pic.twitter.com/FwRfrO3v6y
— Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) September 15, 2024
The White House quickly issued a statement saying both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump’s Democratic rival in the November elections, had been briefed about the incident.
“They are relieved to know that he is safe,” the statement said.
The shooting comes just two months after the former president was wounded in the ear when a gunman opened fire during a Trump rally in Pennsylvania.
The US Secret Service, tasked with protecting presidents, former presidents and other dignitaries, faced criticism after the Pennsylvania incident.
Kimberly Cheatle, the head of the agency, resigned amid the ensuing scrutiny, and at least five Secret Service agents were placed on administrative leave.
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