Gunshots Fired at Donald Trump at Pennsylvania Rally, FBI Investigates Incident

Former President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt while speaking at an outdoor rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening. During his speech, several gunshots were fired, leading to a swift response from his security team. The attack comes less than four months before the U.S. presidential election, where Trump is set to face President Joe Biden in a rematch.

According to the U.S. Secret Service, Trump was quickly evacuated from the stage by agents. He was reported to be in stable condition following the incident. In a video capturing the moment, Trump can be seen ducking behind the podium and touching his right ear, which was bleeding. The crowd also sought cover.

The shooting occurred about six minutes into Trump's speech. After the initial gunshots, Secret Service agents surrounded Trump, keeping him on the ground for approximately 25 seconds as additional shots were fired. Trump was escorted away in a black SUV. In the midst of the chaos, Trump managed to pump his fist and mouth "fight" to the crowd.

“I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin,” said Donald Trump in a post on social media platform Truth Social. “It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country," he added. 

The shooting resulted in the deaths of two people, including the suspected shooter. The FBI is leading the investigation and has identified the shooter as a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania. The motive for the attack remains unclear.

Political leaders from around the world condemned the violence. 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern and condemned the attack. "Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people," said PM Modi. 

U.S. President Joe Biden said that he has been briefed about the incident, and necessary steps are being taken. "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," said the U.S. President. 

Former President Barack Obama called for unity and condemned political violence. "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," said Barack Obama. 

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also sent their best wishes for Trump's recovery.