- Gunshots have interrupted the rally of erstwhile president of the United States, Donald Trump
- Trump has been declared fine by his team following the incident in Pennsylvania
- Political leaders have come together to condemn violence
Former President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, was quickly escorted off stage by Secret Service agents after what appeared to be gunshots interrupted his rally in Pennsylvania which was held on July 13, 2024. Footage captured Trump grimacing and raising a hand to his ear before ducking as sharp cracks, seemingly shots rang out. He was immediately surrounded by agents and rushed to a waiting vehicle.
'Trump is fine' - Campaign
In a statement, Trump's campaign reassured the public that he was "fine" and being "checked out" at a local medical facility. "President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act," spokesman Steven Cheung stated.
The former president, who seemed to have blood on his right ear, raised a fist as he was escorted off stage and into a car. Armed police soon took control of the podium.
The Secret Service confirmed that Trump was safe and that protective measures were in place. They also mentioned that an active investigation had begun and promised to release more information as it became available.
The incident occurred while Trump was addressing supporters in Butler, Pennsylvania, a critical swing state for the upcoming November election. Multiple loud bangs were heard as Trump discussed his successor, President Joe Biden, and his administration. Several supporters, holding placards behind Trump, ducked as the apparent shots were fired.
Gunshots, chaos at Trump's rally
A witness named Jason told the British Broadcasting Corporation that he heard five shots in quick succession.
"We saw the Secret Service jump on Trump to protect him. Everyone in the crowd dropped down very quickly," he recounted. "He shortly thereafter stood up, put his fist up in the air, and said a couple of things."
Also, according to BBC, another attendee, Tim, described hearing a "barrage" of shots.
"There was a spray which we initially thought was a fire hose, and then the speaker on the right-hand side started coming down," he explained. "Something must have hit the hydraulic lines, causing it to fall. We saw President Trump go to the ground, and everyone started dropping because it was chaos."
The White House reported that President Biden, who was in Delaware, had been briefed on the situation. Politicians from both parties condemned the apparent attack.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, stated, "Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable."
Former Vice President Mike Pence expressed that he and his wife were praying for Trump and urged "every American to join us."
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries also issued a statement:
"My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump. I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable."
New York Times' report on Nigeria's economy triggers Federal Government
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the report done by the New York Times publication, which analysed Nigeria's dire socio-economic conditions, provoked the Federal Government but impressed the citizens.
According to the report, Nigerians were experiencing the worst economic crisis in decades, with prices of food, medicine, and petrol too high for many to afford, and the government making it difficult for businesses operate.
