By RYAN MEILSTRUP (Daily Caller News Foundation)
Former President Donald Trump was whisked off the stage by Secret Service on Saturday at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, after multiple rounds of gunfire could be heard.
The former president gestured to the crowd with a fist before being escorted off the stage. The Secret Service said in a statement that the suspected gunman was dead and at least one rally attendee was killed.
“US Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. US Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe and being evaluated. One spectator was killed, two spectators critically injured,” Secret Service Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement Saturday night.
“I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania,” Trump said in a statement on Truth Social following the shooting. “Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country.”
The Trump campaign responded shortly after the shooting by saying the former president is “fine.” “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,” the campaign said in a statement.
Democratic Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro reacted to the shooting of the former president in his home state on Saturday. “Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States,” Shapiro said in an X Post.
