BUTLER COUNTY, PA (WOAY)-
UPDATE 7/13/24 11:45 PM:
There is an ongoing investigation into the potential attempted assassination of former president Donald Trump.
Here’s what we know… In this attempt, the shooter and at least one attendee are dead. There are two other attendees that are critically injured.
Trump was speaking at a rally in butler when multiple shots were fired. Secret Service members then whisked him off the stage, his right ear grazed by a bullet. A spokesperson stating trump is fine and is currently being checked out.
The shooter has not been identified as of now. Secret Service agents saying that the shooter was not an attendee at the rally.
Multiple national and state officials have released statements about the shooting. President Biden saying, “there’s no place in America for this type of violence.”
“The bottom line is that the Trump rally is a rally that he should have been able to be conducted peacefully without any problem. But the idea, the idea that there’s political violence or violence in America, like this is just unheard of. It’s just not appropriate. I mean, everybody, everybody must condemn it.”
Former president trump posting a statement on Truth Social saying he thanks the Secret Service and law enforcement for their rapid response in this. He extended his condolences to the family of the attendee who were killed and to the others who were also injured.
In a joint statement with the Republican National Convention, they stated that we will proceed with our convention and that Trump will be there. That convention is set to open on Monday July 15th in Milwaukee, WI.
Local leaders also speaking out. Senator Shelley Moore Capito posted to X shortly after the incident saying in part quote…
“Praying for President Trump, everyone at the rally, and our country.”
Attorney General Partick Morrisey also releasing a statement on X, that says in part quote…
“The whole state of West Virginia is praying for you, President Trump! We are rooting for a quick recovery after this heinous act. We stand by you!”
Govenor Jim Justice said in a press release in part quote…
“All of my prayers go out to President Trump and his family. We should draw strength from his courage. I refuse to let these actions make me feel afraid.”
The WV Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin said in a press release in part quote….
“Such acts of violence are not only an assault on an individual but an act of violence against our entire country and our democratic system of government. In the United States, we decide our elections with ballots, not with bullets. I encourage all West Virginians and all Americans to recommit ourselves to democratic principles and to the noble ideals that have made our country a beacon of hope around the world.”
This is an ongoing investigation. Newswatch will continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated as we learn more.
Former President Donald Trump rushed off the stage at his rally in Pennsylvania after gunfire. Trump is reported to be ‘fine’ and is currently being evaluated.
“President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.” -Trump spokesperson, @TheStevenCheung
