Candidate Donald Trump Survives Assassination Attempt At Pennsylvania Rally

UPDATE:  Donald Trump released the following statement on social media: "I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the gfamily of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realize then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!"

Presidential Candidate Donald Trump received an outpouring of support after surviving a shooting today at a rally in Butler PA. Among the first was House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), who wrote on X minutes after the incident: “Praying for President Trump.”  Trump said he is "fine" and was treated at a local hospital. President Joe Biden released a statement on X, which read in part:

"I'm grateful to hear that he's safe and doing well. I'm praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information...There's no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."

Trump was merely five minutes into his speech shortly after 6 p.m in Butler PA when he suddenly reached up to his ear and blood was seen streaming from the right side of his head and face. Secret Service agents leapt into action, brought him to ground and covered him. Investigators are looking into the shooting and whether a BB gun may have been used. He gestured to the crowd with a raised fist and seemed to be shouting "Fight, fight, fight!" as he was led away. 

Sources said that the popping sounds heard after the initial shots and when Trump was tackled were actually gunfire from law enforcement, but this report has not been verified. Nine shots were heard. One spectator has been killed. 

In a statement released on its X account, the U.S. Secret Service said: “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.”

Soldiers in battle dress rushed to the rally and took the stage. Nine  officers jumped in to cover him.  Sources said the investigation is ongoing and they are looking into if the shots were from a BB gun.

Members of the crowd of spectators and on the dais reacted with panic, screaming while covering themselves. Thousands of people filled the venue in Butler, where Trump was rumored to plan his vice-presidential pick, one week before the Republican National Convention.

“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,” said Trump spokesman Steven Cheung.