
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announces a state probe into the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at his West Palm Beach golf club, raising questions about security measures and potential threats.
At a Glance
- Florida launches independent investigation into the attempted assassination of Donald Trump
- Suspect Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, was found with an AK-47-style rifle near Trump’s golf club
- The incident has triggered a review of Secret Service security measures
- This is the second assassination attempt on Trump in recent months
- DeSantis emphasizes the need for transparency and enhanced security
DeSantis Announces State Investigation
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has taken a decisive step by announcing a state-led investigation into the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. The incident occurred at Trump’s West Palm Beach golf club, where the former president was playing golf at the time. This move by DeSantis underscores the gravity of the situation and highlights the state’s commitment to ensuring the safety of high-profile individuals within its borders.
The suspect, identified as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, was spotted by Secret Service agents approximately 400 yards from Trump’s location. Routh was found in possession of an AK-47-style rifle, raising serious concerns about the potential threat level. The swift action by law enforcement prevented what could have been a catastrophic event.
Governor Ron DeSantis said Sunday night that the state of Florida would be launching its own investigation into the apparent attempted assassination attempt of former president Donald Trump at his West Palm Beach golf club. https://t.co/lu1dFJz8SC
— FOX 5 DC (@fox5dc) September 16, 2024
Suspect’s Background and Apprehension
Following the initial confrontation, an agent fired at Routh, who then fled the scene in an SUV. The suspect left behind crucial evidence, including the rifle, two backpacks, a scope, and a GoPro camera. Law enforcement quickly mobilized, and Routh was apprehended in a neighboring county. This rapid response showcases the effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation in addressing potential threats to national security.
Court records reveal that Routh has an extensive criminal history, with over 100 criminal counts in North Carolina. Additionally, there are indications of possible pro-Ukrainian connections, as Routh had reportedly expressed intentions to recruit individuals to support Ukraine against Russia. These details add layers of complexity to the investigation and raise questions about potential motivations behind the assassination attempt.
Trump’s Response and Increased Security Measures
In the aftermath of the incident, Trump confirmed his safety and well-being, reassuring supporters of his determination to continue his campaign. This marks the second assassination attempt on the former president in recent months, following a July incident during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. As a result, Trump’s security detail has been significantly enhanced, including measures such as bulletproof glass at rallies.
The State of Florida will be conducting its own investigation regarding the attempted assassination at Trump International Golf Club.
The people deserve the truth about the would be assassin and how he was able to get within 500 yards of the former president and current GOP…
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) September 16, 2024
The Secret Service’s response to this latest threat is under scrutiny, with calls for increased security measures, especially in light of upcoming high-profile events such as the United Nations General Assembly. The incident has also sparked a broader conversation about the safety of political figures and the need for comprehensive security protocols.
National and International Reactions
The attempted assassination has drawn reactions from across the political spectrum and around the world. President Biden expressed relief at Trump’s safety and called on Congress to address the Secret Service’s needs. International leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, condemned the incident and political violence in general.
Governor DeSantis’s decision to launch a state investigation demonstrates Florida’s commitment to maintaining law and order while ensuring transparency in high-profile cases. As the probe unfolds, it will likely shed light on potential security gaps and provide valuable insights for enhancing protection measures for political figures across the nation.
Sources
1. State investigation of attempt on Trump’s life necessary for ‘credibility,’ DeSantis says