Cameras following the Republican candidate captured the momentHe was preparing to speak on stage.
Several shots were fired before the accused was gunned down by the undercover team. It was on the roof of a building outside the confines of the rally.
Officials confirmed that the attacker killed a rally spectator, injured Trump’s right ear, and caused no serious injuries to other civilians.
Hours later, he was identified through DNA.
“The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania., As an individual involved in attempted murder “Former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania,” reports the US federal agency, citing American channels NBC and CBS.
Anger and anxiety
Trump was quickly escorted by Secret Service agents, who removed him from the stage. He still had time to pump his fist, defying a gesture that was applauded by his still-confused supporters.
At first, eyewitnesses thought it was fireworks. A majority of Americans believe the attack will further divide the country.
In a press conference, the FBI is treating the attack as an attempted murder, which is why the case is being investigated. The agency asked for the public’s help, saying it “doesn’t believe it was a lone wolf.”
Donald Trump is back home in New Jersey and is “doing well,” According to a statement posted on the Republican National Committee website, the RNC.
“President Trump is doing well” and “we look forward to joining you all in Milwaukee,” his campaign team and the Republican Party announced in a press release that the convention will take place between Monday and Thursday in Wisconsin.
US President and Democratic candidate Joe Biden has already condemned the incidents Saturday and said she was relieved to know Donald Trump was “safe and well.”
“This kind of violence has no place in America,” he said in a statement to the nation.
The attack was condemned by people around the world, from Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Barack Obama to the presidents of the Council, Commission and European Parliament, Charles Michel, Ursula van der Leyen and Roberta Metzola.
Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa was asked about the attack on NOS Alive, but replied that he had too few details to comment at the time. Luis Montenegro responded this morning, condemning the attack on social network X, as did Defense Minister Nuno Melo.
With Lusa
“Hardcore explorer. Extreme communicator. Professional writer. General music practitioner. Prone to fits of apathy.”