Donald Trump attacked at Pennsylvania rally: What we know so far

NEW DELHI: Former US President Donald Trump was evacuated to a safe space after gunshots were heard in the crowd during his rally in Butler, Pennsylvaniaon Saturday. According to a statement by a White House spokesperson, the suspect and at least one attendee were killed, while two others were injured during the incident.

Trump’s immediate condition

Donald Trump was visibly bleeding from his right ear as he was removed from the stage following the gunshot.Later, Trump released a statement saying he was “fine” and undergoing a check-up at a medical facility. Trump said, “I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.” He added, “The bullet pierced the upper part of my right ear.”

Law enforcement’s response

Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for Trump, expressed gratitude for the quick response of law enforcement and emergency personnel. “President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow,” said Cheung.

Secret service statement

A Secret Service spokesperson, Anthony Guglielmi, stated on social media. “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,” Guglielmi said on X.

President Biden and Vice President Harris condemn violence

President Joe Biden on the incident released a statement saying, “I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania. 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 echoed President Biden’s sentiments. “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,” Harris said.

Former Prez Barack Obama reacts

Former US President Barack Obama also condemned the incident on social media. “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,” Obama said.