Former US President Donald Trump narrowly avoided a reported assassination attempt this Sunday.
The suspect, 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, was apprehended following an exchange of gunfire by Secret Service agents near Trump’s Florida golf course. At the scene, agents recovered an AK-47-style rifle equipped with a scope and a GoPro camera.
Read: Suspect with AK-47 Arrested at Trump International Golf Course
Routh, who was concealed in shrubbery near the property, fled in a black car when Secret Service agents engaged. Thanks to essential details provided by witnesses, authorities quickly located the vehicle, leading to Routh’s capture. Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw confirmed in a press conference, “We have somebody in custody right now who is a potential suspect.”
Originally a construction worker from Greensboro, North Carolina, Routh lacks a formal military background but has shown a strong inclination towards armed conflict. He previously attracted attention with his online statements, including his declaration to “fight and die” in Ukraine after Russia’s invasion in 2022. He has consistently called for civilian involvement in global conflicts across his social media profiles.
On X (formerly Twitter), Routh declared his intention to join the conflict in Ukraine, while his Signal profile emphasized that “civilians must change this war and prevent future wars.” His advocacy extended to WhatsApp, where he promoted human rights and democracy.
The investigation into the alleged assassination plot continues as authorities delve deeper into Routh’s past and his motives.
