Former President Donald Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania was interrupted by what sounded like gunfire on Saturday evening.
People could be heard screaming as Secret Service agents rushed Trump off the stage. Secret Service agents could be heard saying “get him up” and what sounded like “shooter is down” as a large group of Secret Service personnel could be seen making a wall around the former president and escorting him off the stage.
The former president was seen walking on his own while giving a thumbs up to the crowd, who were chanting “USA.” He then gave another thumbs up before entering an awaiting car.
Trump was just moments into his speech when a loud banging was heard. The former president immediately dove on the ground, followed by a number of Secret Service personnel who dove on top of him.
Officers in tactical gear armed with rifles could be seen surrounding the stage.
Trump appeared to grab his ear before hitting the ground. Footage does confirm that the president appeared to be bleeding from his ear, though it was unknown if he sustained any other injuries.
The former president was heard asking for his shoes before he made his exit, which appear to have flown off in the chaos.
Thousands had turned out for the Butler, Pennsylvania rally, as Trump was rumored to be making his long-awaited vice presidential selection.
— Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) July 13, 2024
The Secret Service issued a statement on the incident shortly after 6:45 p.m. Eastern Time.
“An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.”
The White House also released a statement confirming that President Biden has been briefed on what is only being described at this time as an “incident.”
U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser (R-PA) was in the front row alongside Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Senate candidate Dave McCormick at the time of the incident. The congressman reported that he heard 8-10 shots and believed to see multiple people down in the front row.
The Butler County district attorney reported that one person is believed to be dead. WTAE reporter Mike Valente added that it is believed to have been someone in the crowd.
The Trump Campaign has released a statement after former President Donald Trump appeared to have survived an assassination attempt.
“President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.”
This is a developing story.
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