Former US President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt while delivering a speech at a rally in Pennsylvania. A video of the incident shows Trump addressing a large crowd when the shots were heard. Initially unaware of what was happening, Trump touched his right ear before ducking behind the stage for cover. The crowd, confused and scared, also tried to dodge the bullets.
Secret Service agents swiftly responded, covering Trump and escorting him off the stage. Trump, with a bleeding right ear, raised his fist as he was taken to safety.
The FBI is leading the investigation into the shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania. They confirmed that special agents from the Pittsburgh Field Office responded immediately and are working with crisis response teams and evidence technicians. The FBI has called on the public to provide any information they might have about the incident.
The US Secret Service reported that one spectator was killed and another critically injured. The shooter was neutralised and is now dead. Hours after the incident, Trump stated that the bullet pierced the upper part of his ear.
Trump's senior advisers, Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles, announced that the former president is "doing well" and plans to attend the Republican convention in Milwaukee.
In his first statement after the shooting, Trump expressed gratitude to the Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift response.
US President Joe Biden condemned the attack, calling it "sick" and emphasising the need for unity to prevent such violence.
