Suspect in Trump’s Alleged Assassination Plot Faces Federal Gun Charges

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Ryan Wesley Routh, a 58-year-old man, has been charged with federal gun crimes following an attempted assassination on former President Donald Trump. The incident occurred on a Florida golf course just weeks before the election, raising concerns amid a cycle already marred by violence.

Routh faces accusations of possessing a firearm despite prior felony convictions and having a weapon with an altered serial number. The investigation is ongoing, and more serious charges could be forthcoming as prosecutors work to secure an indictment from a grand jury.

During his first court appearance in West Palm Beach, Routh was shackled and dressed in a blue jumpsuit. He responded to basic questions regarding his employment and finances while appearing relatively relaxed, even smiling at times. His public defender refrained from offering comments post-hearing.

The alarming incident unfolded on Sunday afternoon when Secret Service agents, stationed nearby, spotted the muzzle of an AK-style rifle protruding from the foliage, approximately 400 yards from where Trump was playing golf.

According to reports, an agent discharged his weapon, prompting Routh to abandon the rifle and flee the scene in an SUV. He left behind not only the firearm but also two backpacks, a scope, and a GoPro camera. Law enforcement apprehended him in a neighboring county.

This marks the second assassination attempt against Trump within two months. Notably, on July 13, he was grazed by a bullet during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Just over a week later, President Biden exited the race, paving the way for Vice President Kamala Harris to assume the party’s nomination.

Terry Spencer reported with contributions from Stephany Matat, Eric Tucker, Alanna Durkin Richer, and Colleen Long of the Associated Press.