Chaos erupted at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania when former president Donald Trump was abruptly whisked off stage amid the sound of gunfire.
As confirmed by Reuters, the unsettling scene unfolded while Trump was speaking to his supporters. He unexpectedly grabbed his right ear, and shortly after, a visible trace of blood was seen as Secret Service agents quickly intervened.
The United States Secret Service issued a statement confirming Trump’s safety: “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.”
In response to the incident, Trump’s campaign reassured the public, stating: “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.”
The White House has also been looped in, with President Joe Biden being briefed about the situation.
The incident was witnessed firsthand by several attendees, including Fox News’ Senior Congressional Correspondent Chad Pergram and Rep. Dan Meuser. According to Meuser, there were about ‘8-10 shots’ heard, suggesting the use of a small caliber weapon, possibly a .22. He also mentioned that several attendees were possibly injured.
Following the incident, the scene at the venue was chaotic, with Butler County District Attorney informing WTAE that one individual from the crowd might be deceased. Details on the shooter were still unclear.
The rally was left in disarray with furniture overturned and the area cordoned off with yellow police tape, while armed officers secured the perimeter, including the rooftops.
The incident has sparked a wave of support for Trump, transcending political boundaries, with figures like Senator Bernie Sanders condemning the violence and wishing Trump a swift recovery.
This alarming event marks a critical moment in the presidential race, with the election looming and the polls showing a neck-and-neck race between Trump and Biden. With the election just months away on November 5, the stakes couldn’t be higher.