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Assassination attempt on Trump foiled, Biden relieved Trump is safe

Assassination attempt on Trump foiled, Biden relieved Trump is safe Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump gestures after addressing the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) annual meeting in National Harbor, Maryland, U.S., February 24, 2024 (Reuters Photo)
By Anadolu Agency
Sep 16, 2024 8:08 AM

President Joe Biden said he is “relieved” that Republican candidate Donald Trump is unharmed following a possible assassination attempt Sunday in Florida.

“I have been briefed by my team regarding what federal law enforcement is investigating as a possible assassination attempt of former President Trump today.

“A suspect is in custody, and I commend the work of the Secret Service and their law enforcement partners for their vigilance and efforts to keep the former president and those around him safe,” Biden said in a statement.

Biden’s remarks followed a statement from Trump campaign Communications Director Steven Cheung, who confirmed that Trump was “safe” after the apparent assassination attempt while he was golfing in West Palm Beach.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said it is investigating the incident as a possible assassination attempt on the former president.

Biden said there is an “active investigation” into the incident as law enforcement gathers more details about what happened.

“As I have said many times, there is no place for political violence or any violence in our country, and I have directed my team to ensure that the Secret Service has every resource, capability, and protective measure necessary to ensure the former president’s continued safety,” Biden added.

The incident occurred two months after Trump was injured during an assassination attempt on July 13. In that incident, Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old lone gunman, opened fire on Trump during a campaign rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania, grazing his right ear.

Law enforcement officials in Florida said they apprehended a suspect spotted by Secret Service agents with an AK-47-style assault rifle outside Trump’s golf club.

A Secret Service official said personnel opened fire on the gunman, who was near the property line. The gunman then dropped his rifle, two backpacks, and a GoPro video camera before fleeing in a black SUV, according to Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw.

A witness managed to take photos of the suspect’s car and license plate.

“We have somebody in custody right now who is a potential suspect,” said Bradshaw.

Harris ‘deeply disturbed’ by possible assassination attempt

Vice President Kamala Harris, also the Democratic candidate for president, said she is “deeply disturbed” by the possible assassination attempt on Trump.

“As we gather the facts, I will be clear: I condemn political violence. We all must do our part to ensure that this incident does not lead to more violence,” Harris said in a statement.

She added that she is thankful her Republican rival is “safe.”

“I commend the U.S. Secret Service and law enforcement for their vigilance. As President Biden said, our administration will ensure the Secret Service has every resource, capability, and protective measure necessary to carry out its critical mission,” she emphasized.

Trump also addressed the incident, assuring supporters that he is “safe” and stating, “There were gunshots in my vicinity, but before rumors start spiraling out of control, I wanted you to hear this first: I AM SAFE AND WELL!”

“Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER!” he added.

Last Updated:  Sep 16, 2024 8:08 AM