Former President Donald Trump was confirmed safe after gunshots were fired near him while he was golfing at the Trump International Golf Course in West Palm Beach. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon, prompting concerns for Trump’s safety. Trump spokesman Steven Cheung released a statement assuring the public that the President was unharmed, stating, “President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity. No further details at this time.”
Suspect Found in Bushes
Journalist Natalie Winters reported that a suspect was found in the bushes near the golf course, according to the Express. Winters stated, “Shots were just fired at Trump International Golf Course in West Palm Beach, Florida. Trump was there golfing. An AK-47 was discovered in the bushes and the suspect fled over a nearby wall, per a source in Florida law enforcement.” This alarming development raised questions about the motives behind the gunfire and the potential threat to Trump’s safety.
Assassination Attempt Recalled
The incident at the Trump International Golf Course brought back memories of an assassination attempt on Trump in July 2024. The previous attempt on his life had heightened security concerns around the former President, as he continued to attract controversy and opposition during his public appearances. The proximity of the gunfire to Trump raised concerns about his vulnerability to potential threats and the need for enhanced security measures.
Trump Issues Statement
Following the gunshots near the golf course, Donald Trump issued a statement to reassure his supporters and the public. Trump’s statement emphasized his safety and resilience in the face of adversity, stating, “There were gunshots in my vicinity, but before rumors start spiraling out of control, I wanted you to hear this first: I AM SAFE AND WELL! Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER! I will always love you for supporting me. Unity. Peace. Make America Great Again. May God bless you.” Trump’s defiant message aimed to project strength and determination in the face of potential threats to his safety.
Location of Golf Club
The Trump International Golf Course is located approximately five miles from Trump’s residence at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach. The golf course serves as a popular recreational spot for the former President, where he often spends his leisure time when not engaged in political activities. The proximity of the golf course to Trump’s residence highlighted the potential risks and security challenges faced by him in his daily activities.
Gun Recovered at Scene
Police sources reported that an AK-47 was recovered at the scene of the incident, indicating the presence of a high-powered firearm near the golf course. The suspect was allegedly pointing the weapon towards the golf course before shots were fired at 2:00 p.m., as reported by the Daily Mail. The discovery of the firearm raised concerns about the intentions of the suspect and the potential threat posed to Trump and others in the vicinity of the golf course.
Trump’s Son Speaks Out
Donald Trump Jr., the former President’s son, expressed his concern over the incident at the Trump Golf Course in West Palm Beach. Trump Jr. took to social media to inform the public about the situation, stating, “Again folks! SHOTS FIRED at Trump Golf Course in West Palm Beach, Florida. An AK-47 was discovered in the bushes, per local law enforcement. The Trump campaign has released a statement confirming former President Trump is safe. A suspect has reportedly been apprehended.” Trump Jr.’s statement reflected the family’s concern for Trump’s safety and the need for transparency in addressing security threats.
Secret Service Response
According to reports, Secret Service agents were involved in the response to the incident at the Trump International Golf Course. The agents reportedly shot at a person seen with a firearm, who then fled in an SUV before being apprehended later. An AK-style firearm was recovered near the golf course, indicating the severity of the situation and the potential danger posed by the suspect. Eye-witnesses described a significant law enforcement presence at the scene, highlighting the swift and decisive action taken to secure the area and protect Trump and others present at the golf course.
In Custody and Press Conference
Authorities confirmed that a suspect was in custody following the incident at the Trump Golf Course. The Palm Beach Sheriff’s Department was expected to hold a press conference to provide updates on the shooting and address concerns about the safety of the public and the ongoing investigation. The apprehension of the suspect brought a sense of relief to the community, as efforts were made to ensure the security of the area and prevent further incidents of violence.
President Biden Informed
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed about the security incident at the Trump International Golf Course, where former President Trump was golfing at the time of the shooting. The White House issued a statement confirming that Biden and Harris were ‘relieved’ to know that Trump was safe and would be kept updated on the situation. The communication between the current and former administrations underscored the importance of maintaining security protocols and ensuring the safety of all individuals involved in the incident.
Area Known for Crime
Reports indicated that the area outside the Trump Golf Course was known for high crime rates, with two individuals exchanging shots in a separate incident from the one involving Trump. The shooters were believed to be targeting each other, and the gunfire was not directed at Trump specifically. Despite the prevalence of crime in the area, Trump and others at the golf course were not in immediate danger during the shooting, as law enforcement responded swiftly to contain the situation and address the threat posed by the suspects.
Security Measures and Investigation
The U.S. Secret Service, in conjunction with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, launched an investigation into the incident at the Trump International Golf Course. The protective measures implemented by the Secret Service aimed to secure the area and prevent any further threats to Trump or the public. The recovery of the firearm and apprehension of the suspect indicated progress in the investigation, as authorities worked to gather evidence and identify any potential accomplices or motives behind the shooting.
Conclusion
The incident of shots fired near the Trump International Golf Course in West Palm Beach raised concerns about the safety and security of former President Donald Trump. While Trump was confirmed safe following the incident, the discovery of an AK-47 and the apprehension of a suspect highlighted the potential risks and threats faced by individuals in high-profile positions. The swift response by law enforcement and the Secret Service demonstrated the importance of maintaining vigilance and preparedness in addressing security threats and ensuring the safety of all individuals involved. As the investigation into the incident continues, efforts will be made to enhance security measures and prevent similar incidents in the future.