Suspect Apprehended After Alleged Assassination Attempt Near Trump’s Florida Residence

WEST PALM BEACH, FL — Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw announced the arrest of a man suspected of attempting an assassination near former President Donald Trump’s residence. The incident unfolded around 1:30 p.m. ET on Sunday when a Secret Service agent noticed a rifle barrel protruding through a fence at Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach.

According to Bradshaw, the agent immediately engaged the suspect, who was armed with an AK-47-style rifle equipped with a scope and a GoPro camera. The suspect, identified as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, was located approximately 300-500 yards from Trump’s residence. Secret Service agents fired at least four shots during the confrontation, though it is unclear if the suspect returned fire.

A nearby witness provided critical information to authorities, spotting the suspect fleeing the scene and jumping into a black SUV. The witness captured a photo of the suspect’s vehicle and license plate, which proved instrumental in tracking down Routh. Using the information, law enforcement agencies, including the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, were able to locate and apprehend the suspect.

Routh was detained by authorities in Martin County, where the witness was flown to positively identify him. The suspect is currently in custody, and the investigation into the apparent assassination attempt is ongoing. Sheriff Bradshaw stated that Routh has not yet provided any details about his involvement in the incident.

Routh, who was previously interviewed by Newsweek Romania in 2022, had reportedly been involved in recruiting foreign volunteers to fight for Ukraine. At this time, authorities have not commented on whether Routh’s involvement with foreign military efforts played a role in Sunday’s events.

The quick response from the Secret Service and local law enforcement helped prevent a potential tragedy. The incident is being treated as an assassination attempt, though further details are still being gathered. Sheriff Bradshaw assured the public that the investigation is moving forward and that the suspect will face serious charges.

As authorities continue their investigation, more information is expected to be released in the coming days. This incident has raised concerns about security near Trump’s Florida residence, prompting officials to review and potentially enhance safety measures in the area.