One killed, others injured, including Former President Trump, after assassination attempt at rally
A very scary moment for the nation after gunfire broke out at a Pennsylvania rally leaving two dead, including the shooter, and at least two critically injured. Former President Donald J. Trump was also injured in the assassination attempt.
Image Courtesy: Evan Vucci of the The Associated Press / @evanvucci
The gunfire erupted when a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue located in Butler, Pennsylvania, around 6:15 P.M. on July 13th.
“US Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased,” according to Anthony Gugleilmi, Chief of Communications for the US Secret Service said. “The Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe and being evaluated.”
One spectator was killed and two spectators were critically injured.
Former President Trump said 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 family 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 realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!”
President Joe Biden said:
“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. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. There’s no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.”
Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the incident:
“Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting. We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action. Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.”
Former President Barack Obama said:
“There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we don’t yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasn’t seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.”
The FBI has confirmed the identify of the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.
The FBI is asking anyone with information that may assist with the investigation to call 1-800-CALL-FBI
This remains a developing story.
Related stories
LocalEight fire departments from Lee, Russell counties respond to multiple brush fires
LocalBarn fire reported in Lee County; multiple agencies respond
LocalBREAKING: Multiple agencies on scene of large brush fire on Gullatt Road in Dixie community
LocalBrush fire contained on Lynn Road in Dixie
LocalStructure fire spreads into woods, damages second building in Macon County