Chaos and terror erupted at a political rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when a gunman unleashed a volley of shots towards former President Donald Trump, in a brazen assassination attempt that has sent shockwaves across the United States.
Rally Turns to Mayhem
What began as a typical campaign event for the presidential hopeful descended into panic at approximately 6:13 PM local time. Attendees were left screaming and scrambling for cover as the distinct crack of rifle fire rang out. Mr Trump was seen clutching the side of his head before being swiftly surrounded and rushed from the stage by his heavily-armed Secret Service detail.
Secret Service Neutralises Threat
In a immediate and decisive response, a Secret Service counter-sniper team located the shooter on a rooftop outside the rally's security perimeter. The suspect was fatally shot by agents, neutralising the immediate threat. The FBI has since taken the lead in investigating the attack, confirming the gunman is deceased.
Trump's Condition and Defiant Response
Despite the attack, the former president's injuries are reported to be non-life-threatening. In a powerful and defiant statement released from his team, Trump said, "I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear... I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response."
Eyewitnesses Describe the Panic
Eyewitnesses at the scene described moments of pure terror. One attendee recounted, "We heard what sounded like fireworks, but then we saw the secret service agents jump on the stage and people started screaming and running. It was absolute chaos." Another stated they saw the shooter on a nearby roof moments before the shooting began.
Political Leaders Unite in Condemnation
The assassination attempt has prompted a rare moment of unity across the political divide. President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident and released a statement condemning the violence, saying, "I'm praying for him and his family and for everyone at the rally." Leaders from across the globe have also expressed their shock and condemnation.
The investigation into the motive and background of the shooter is ongoing, as the nation grapples with one of the most significant acts of political violence in recent memory.
