Trump Unharmed in Butler Campaign Rally Shooting; Gunman and Spectator Dead

BUTLER — On Saturday, Former President Donald Trump was recovering after a shooting occurred during his campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The attack left one rally-goer and the gunman dead, and two others critically injured, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

The incident took place shortly after Trump took the stage around 6 p.m. Several loud pops were heard, prompting Secret Service agents to swiftly remove him from the stage. Video footage showed Trump reacting to something hitting his ear before being escorted away.

In a post on his verified account on Truth Social at 8:42 p.m., Trump confirmed he was shot, expressing gratitude to the Secret Service and law enforcement for their rapid response. He extended condolences to the families of the deceased and injured individuals. Trump detailed that a bullet pierced the upper part of his right ear, causing significant bleeding.

Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the U.S. Secret Service, explained that the suspected shooter fired multiple shots from an elevated position outside the rally venue. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. One spectator was killed, and two others were critically injured. The FBI has been notified and is investigating the incident.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger noted the shooter’s location was outside the venue grounds, and authorities are trying to determine how the shooter accessed the area. The Associated Press reported the incident is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

President Joe Biden condemned the shooting in a statement, declaring there is no place in America for such violence and calling for unity. He mentioned he had attempted to contact Trump, who was with doctors and appeared to be doing well.

The FBI and Pennsylvania State Police are assisting the Secret Service in the ongoing investigation. Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung reported that Trump was fine and undergoing medical checks. Additional details are forthcoming.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro acknowledged the situation, emphasizing that violence against any political figure is unacceptable. GOP U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick, who was present at the rally, described the scene as chaotic with numerous shots fired.

Senator Bob Casey (D-Pa) and U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-16th District) also addressed the event. Casey condemned political violence, while Kelly labeled the shooting as an “attack from the left” and confirmed he was safe with his family.

Trump campaign advisors and RNC officials assured the public that Trump was doing well and looked forward to continuing his campaign. The incident remains under investigation, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.