A man suspected of attempting to assassinate former US President Donald Trump has been charged with two federal gun-related offenses after being discovered with a concealed rifle at Trump’s Florida golf course, Reuters reported.
According to a criminal complaint filed on Monday, phone records indicate the suspect may have been waiting for nearly 12 hours at the golf course, equipped with a rifle and supplies. The Secret Service intervened when an agent observed the rifle barrel protruding from the bushes on Sunday, prompting them to open fire. The suspect fled in a sports utility vehicle.
The suspect, identified as Ryan Routh, 58, was arrested approximately 40 minutes later on Interstate 95. Routh’s vehicle, which had a stolen license plate, was found to contain a loaded assault-style rifle, a digital camera, and a plastic bag of food. Records show that Routh’s phone was at the golf course from 1:59 am on Sunday, indicating his prolonged presence.
Routh, who has prior felony convictions in North Carolina, faces charges of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number. The complaint reveals that Routh previously pleaded guilty to possession of an unregistered fully automatic gun in 2002 and to possessing stolen goods in 2010.
Read More: Nuclear technology offers solution to climate, health, energy and food safety woes: Chairman PAEC
Trump unharmed; security under scrutiny
Former President Trump, who was unharmed in the incident, continues with his campaign schedule, including a cryptocurrency business launch on X, and upcoming events in Michigan and New York.
The incident has sparked renewed scrutiny of the Secret Service, which has faced criticism following a similar attack in July. The agency’s Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned after that attack, and Acting Director Ronald Rowe has since been tasked with addressing security lapses.
Trump has accused President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris of inflaming tensions, although authorities have not yet confirmed any motive behind the suspected assassination attempt. In response, Harris and Biden have condemned violence and reaffirmed their commitment to resolving differences peacefully.
Suspect’s background & political affiliation
Routh is known for his support of Ukraine and had traveled there seeking to recruit foreign fighters following Russia’s 2022 invasion. Ukrainian officials have distanced themselves from Routh, and The International Legion, which recruits foreign fighters for Ukraine, stated it had no connections with him. Routh’s social media profiles, which expressed support for Ukraine and criticism of Trump, have been removed since the incident.
Elon Musk, the owner of X, made controversial posts questioning why no attempts had been made against Biden or Harris, though he later claimed his comments were intended as jokes.
