Just hours after he survived a second assassination attempt on Sunday in Florida, former US President and current republican presidential nominee Donald Trump termed the day as “interesting”.
Trump, who was playing golf at the time of the incident, thanked the law enforcement for their services. He took to Truth Social to share his statement. It was later re-shared on Instagram.
“I would like to thank everyone for your concern and well wishes – It was certainly an interesting day! Most importantly, I want to thank the U.S. Secret Service, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw and his Office of brave and dedicated Patriots, and, all of Law Enforcement, for the incredible job done today at Trump International in keeping me, as the 45th President of the United States, and the Republican Nominee in the upcoming Presidential Election, SAFE. THE JOB DONE WAS ABSOLUTELY OUTSTANDING. I AM VERY PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN!” Trump said.
Meanwhile, police have arrested 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh for his alleged involvement in the assassination attempt. A high-powered AK-47-style rifle equipped with a scope and a GoPro camera was found at the scene.
Routh, a former construction worker from Greensboro, North Carolina, reportedly fled the area after Secret Service agents opened fire, escaping in a black car. However, he was caught with help from witnesses who aided authorities in finding his vehicle, which led to the arrest. Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw confirmed that Routh is in custody as a potential suspect.
“We have somebody in custody right now that is a potential suspect,” Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw stated in a press conference, as reported by AFP.
Also read: Who Is Ryan Routh? Man arrested for Donald Trump’s assassination bid in Florida
Joe Biden reacts
President Joe Biden, who was briefed about the incident, said in an official statement that he’s relieved that his processor was unharmed.
I have been briefed by my team regarding what federal law enforcement is investigating as a possible assassination attempt of former President Trump today. A suspect is in custody, and I commend the work of the Secret Service and their law enforcement partners for their vigilance and their efforts to keep the former President and those around him safe. I am relieved that the former President is unharmed.
– President Biden.
“There is an active investigation into this incident as law enforcement gathers more details about what happened. As I have said many times, there is no place for political violence or for any violence ever in our country, and I have directed my team to continue to ensure that Secret Service has every resource, capability and protective measure necessary to ensure the former President’s continued safety,” Biden said.