New Delhi: In a shocking turn of events, former US President Donald Trump became the target of an assassination attempt during an election rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. The incident occurred amid a deeply polarized political atmosphere, just four months ahead of the US presidential election in 2024.
Targeted shooting on Trump
The shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, from Bethel Park, was reportedly positioned on the roof of a manufacturing plant more than 130 yards away from the stage. Crooks opened fire during Trump’s speech, causing chaos and prompting Secret Service agents to form a barricade around the former president. Despite the immediate threat, Trump is reportedly “fine” after the incident.
According to law enforcement officials, the heavily armed U.S. Secret Service counterassault team engaged Crooks after he fired shots.
Tragically, one rally attendee succumbed to a bullet injury during the shooting, according to CNN. The shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by Secret Service agents shortly after the incident.
Ron Moose, a Trump supporter present at the rally, recounted the chaotic moments following the shooting. Moose described hearing four shots, seeing the crowd duck, and witnessing the swift actions of the Secret Service in protecting Trump.
Ivanka Trump, the daughter of the former president, shared an emotional message expressing gratitude for the love and prayers for her father and other victims of the attack. She thanked the Secret Service and law enforcement officers for their quick actions and expressed her prayers for the country.
Jeff Bezos, founder and former president and CEO of Amazon, praised Trump’s “grace and courage,” while New York State GOP chairman Ed Cox compared the incident to the 1912 shooting of former President Theodore Roosevelt, highlighting Trump’s resilience. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, appearing on Fox News, likened the event to watching a personal friend get shot, praising Trump’s determination to continue his campaign.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his dismay as well, denouncing political violence and extending his thoughts to all victims. US President Joe Biden issued a statement condemning the assassination attempt and expressing relief that Trump is safe. He extended his prayers to Trump, his family, and everyone present at the rally.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has not yet determined a motive behind Crooks’ actions. Pennsylvania State Police LT. Col. George Bevins emphasized that it is too early to confirm whether Crooks acted alone or was part of a broader conspiracy. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities following up on multiple leads.
Despite the assassination attempt, Trump’s campaign confirmed that he would attend the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee next week. In a statement, the campaign reiterated Trump’s commitment to his vision of “Making America Great Again” and assured supporters that he is doing well and is grateful for the swift response of law enforcement and first responders.
