Trump safe after shooting at golf course; says ‘will never surrender’

Former US president and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump on Sunday (September 15) escaped a second assassination attempt following firing of gunshots outside a golf course in Florida where he was playing, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said.

Trump’s campaign, however, confirmed that he is safe.

"President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity. No further details at this time," Steven Cheung, Trump Campaign Communications director said in a statement soon after that.

US President Joe Biden has condemned the incident while stating that he will ensure that Secret Service uses all its resource, capability and protective measure to provide security to the former president.

Nothing will slow me down: Trump

In a message to his supporters, Trump said he is safe. “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!” he said.

The man who authorities say pointed a rifle with a scope into Trump's golf club and was arrested is Ryan Wesley Routh, three law enforcement officials told The Associated Press.

No place for violence in our country: Biden

The White House said both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have been briefed about the incident.

"The President and Vice President have been briefed about the security incident at the Trump International Golf Course, where former President Trump was golfing. They are relieved to know that he is safe. They will be kept regularly updated by their team," the White House said.

Stating that there is “no place for political violence or for any violence ever in our country,” US President Joe Biden said that he has directed his team to ensure that Secret Service employs every resource, capability and protective measures to provide security to Trump.

“A suspect is in custody, and I commend the work of Secret Service and their law enforcement partners for their vigilance and their efforts to keep the former President and those around him safe. I am relieved that the former President is unharmed,” Biden said adding that there is an active investigation into the incident.

Glad he is safe: Harris

Harris, who is Trump’s rival in the elections, while condemning the assassination attempt, said she is glad he is safe.

“I have been briefed on reports of gunshots fired near former President Trump and his property in Florida, and I am glad he is safe. Violence has no place in America,” she said.

How Secret Service caught assailant

Soon after the gunshots were heard at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, where Trump was golfing, the FBI said that it is "investigating what appears to be an attempted assassination of former President Trump".

The incident took place at roughly around 1:30 pm local time when Secret Service agents spotted a person with AK-47 near the golf course. Agents opened fire at him.

The Trump Campaign headquarters, which is in the same campus, is under lockdown. "Officials believe the shots fired at Trump International Golf Club were intended for former President Donald Trump, according to sources familiar on the matter," CNN reported.

‘Trump in good spirits’

"Sources said the Secret Service spotted a suspicious individual on the Trump International Golf Course West Palm Beach, and opened fire when agents saw what appeared to be the barrel of a gun," the New York Post reported.

"Just spoke with President Trump. He is one of the strongest people I’ve ever known. He’s in good spirits and he is more resolved than ever to save our country," said Senator Lindsey Graham after speaking with Trump.

Pennsylvania assassination bid  

The apparent attack aimed at the former president comes two months after shots were fired at him at a rally in Pennsylvania. While the bullet grazed his right ear, Trump escaped unhurt.

Secret Security agents gunned down the assailant.

The incident led to the resignation of Kimberly Cheatle, the head of US Secret Service. Five Secret Service agents were also placed on administrative leave.

(With inputs from agencies)