The former US president, Donald Trump, was reportedly injured but is expected to survive, according to two senior law enforcement officials. The 78-year-old appeared to have sustained a bloody ear.
Gunfire erupted during Trump’s speech in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday. The incident occurred while Trump was discussing immigration and displaying a chart of border crossing numbers.
The speech was abruptly interrupted by the sound of gunshots, prompting Trump to place his hand on his ear and sit down behind the podium. Bodyguards quickly surrounded him, and he was led off the stage with a bloodied right ear.
US Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi confirmed that Trump is safe following the incident and that the Secret Service has implemented protective measures.
“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,” Guglielmi said on social media.
“This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.”
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the incident. The White House issued a statement saying, “The President has received an initial briefing on the incident at Former President Trump’s rally,” the White House said on Saturday.”
The Trump campaign also released a statement, assuring that Trump is fine and is being checked at a local medical facility.
The statement read: “President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.”
