Washington, D.C.: September 15, 2024: A tense atmosphere surrounded former U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday afternoon as reports of gunfire emerged near his location in Florida. Trump’s campaign team and the U.S. Secret Service quickly reassured the public that the Republican presidential candidate is safe, although the motive behind the shooting remains unclear.
The gunfire incident occurred around 2 p.m. near West Palm Beach, Florida, according to the U.S. Intelligence Service, which is now actively investigating whether Trump was the intended target. No injuries have been reported, as confirmed by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. Trump, who has been campaigning heavily in preparation for the 2024 presidential election, was not harmed.
White House Response
In a rare moment of bipartisan concern, the White House promptly informed President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and other key officials about the shooting. Both Biden and Harris, the Democratic Party’s candidates for the upcoming election, expressed relief that Trump emerged unscathed from the potential threat. A White House spokesperson emphasized that the administration would remain updated on the investigation’s progress.
Connection to Pennsylvania Rally Attack
This unsettling incident comes just weeks after another gunman targeted Trump during a rally in Pennsylvania on July 13. During that attack, a bullet narrowly missed the former president, grazing his right ear, while one rally attendee tragically lost their life, and two others sustained serious injuries. Security around Trump has since been heightened, with precautions such as bulletproof glass at his public events and additional security measures at Trump Tower in New York City.
Investigation Continues in Florida
As of now, details about the Florida shooting remain sparse. Security officials are working to determine whether the gunfire occurred near Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course or in the surrounding area. Trump, a regular at his Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, often spends his mornings golfing before returning to his other campaign activities. A security officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the investigation is ongoing and the origins of the gunfire are yet to be fully understood.
The Trump campaign has not released additional information at this time, and authorities continue to gather evidence. Trump’s security team remains vigilant, particularly given the heightened concerns after the Pennsylvania shooting.
