Law enforcement officials from the FBI, Secret Service, and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office have reported that a suspect is in custody after being spotted with an assault rifle near where former President Trump was golfing. This incident occurred on September 15, 2024.
The suspect, who was identified as Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, was seen near the perimeter of the golf course. Secret Service agents engaged the suspect and fired shots before he fled the scene. He was later apprehended without further incident in Martin County, north of Palm Beach.
According to the Chicago Tribune, Routh was carrying an AK-style rifle, and cellphone location data obtained by the FBI indicated that he had been in the vicinity for nearly 12 hours. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies are still investigating the motive behind the attack.
President Biden expressed relief that former President Trump was unharmed. He added that the Secret Service needs more help and urged Congress to address the agency’s needs.
Routh was charged with federal gun crimes, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Additional charges are expected as the investigation continues.
As reported by NBC News, Trump was golfing with longtime friend and adviser Steve Witkoff when the incident occurred. Both were moved to a secure location immediately. Trump later emailed his supporters, reassuring them of his safety and vowing that nothing would slow him down.
Vice President Kamala Harris also commented on the incident, stating she was glad that Trump was safe and emphasizing that violence has no place in America.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office released footage of Routh’s arrest, which was captured on an officer’s body camera and posted on their Facebook page. The arrest was made possible thanks to a witness who saw Routh fleeing the scene and provided a photo of his vehicle to law enforcement.
The incident has raised concerns about the security measures in place for former presidents, especially in light of a previous assassination attempt on Trump just nine weeks ago. A bipartisan House task force has requested a briefing from the Secret Service to understand the security response and to consider any necessary improvements.