The FBI has released an alarming image that shows items abandoned by a suspected shooter at Donald Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach. Following gunfire from Secret Service agents, a 58-year-old man named Ryan Wesley Routh reportedly fled the scene.
The barrel of a rifle was observed sticking out from the foliage near the 5th and 6th holes, according to authorities. Trump was enjoying a round of golf, oblivious to the events that were developing around him.
Agents were on the lookout, monitoring several holes in advance of Trump’s arrival on the course. An agent observed an unusual sight—a rifle barrel protruding from a chain-link fence.
The agent responded quickly, discharging their weapon, which caused the suspect to escape in a black Nissan SUV. Authorities apprehended Routh after a witness recorded the vehicle’s license plate.
Routh, with a background of legal troubles, maintained his composure throughout the arrest process. He accepted the situation without questioning the reason for law enforcement’s stop.
When law enforcement apprehended him, he posed no threat, yet the evidence he left at the location sparked significant alarm. The FBI has released a comprehensive image of the items found in Routh’s hiding place.
Among the items discovered were an AK-47-style rifle fitted with a scope, two backpacks, and ceramic body armor plates. On the other side of the fence, they discovered a GoPro camera.
Authorities suspect that Routh might have intended to document the assassination attempt. The presence of backpacks and body armor indicates that Routh was ready for an extended duration of anticipation.
Documents from the court indicate that Routh spent almost 12 hours at the golf course. According to cell phone data, he remained hidden in the bushes from early morning until shortly after noon.
Officials continue to look into the full scope of Routh’s intentions. Former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe characterized the arrangement as exceptionally systematic.
“This whole setup indicates a very high level of pre-planning,” McCabe stated. This event represents the second attempt on Trump’s life within a span of two months.
In July, a shooter unleashed gunfire at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, narrowly missing Trump’s ear. Secret Service agents stopped Thomas Matthew Crooks, the shooter, before he could fire another round.
In July, an attack resulted in the deaths of two individuals, with two more sustaining critical injuries. Concerns regarding safety have emerged in light of recent events during Trump’s public engagements.
Routh, once an advocate for Trump, has since become a vocal critic and has a recorded history of aggressive language. In his 2023 book, “Ukraine’s Unwinnable War”, he stated, “You are free to assassinate Trump.”
Routh voiced strong disapproval regarding Trump’s management of the Capitol riots and the Iran nuclear agreement. Authorities are currently scrutinizing his digital footprint and publications to determine if this incident was part of a larger scheme.
During a press conference after the incident on Sunday, Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw highlighted the increased security measures surrounding Trump. Nonetheless, they did not reach the level of detail typically seen for an incumbent leader.
“He’s not the sitting president,” Bradshaw said. “If he was, we would have had this entire golf course surrounded.”
The recent attempt on Trump’s life has sparked renewed discussions surrounding the issues of political violence and the safety of prominent individuals. Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has announced the launch of an inquiry to ascertain the circumstances that permitted Routh to approach Trump.
In his characteristic style, Trump spoke to his supporters to provide them with reassurance regarding his safety. “There were gunshots in my vicinity, but before rumors spiral out of control, I wanted you to hear this first: I AM SAFE AND WELL!” Trump made a statement.
The FBI is actively looking into whether Routh was acting independently or if he had any collaborators involved in the incident. Lawmakers are keeping a vigilant eye on recent events, particularly regarding the Assassination Task Force.
Congressman Mike Waltz highlighted that the attack on July 13 was part of a broader pattern. Waltz urged immediate measures to tackle constant dangers.
As the inquiry progresses, uncertainties linger regarding how Routh managed to evade detection for almost 12 hours. Authorities are currently facing increased demands to improve Trump’s safety protocols.
