Video captures moment Secret Service snipers took down Donald Trump's shooter at Pennsylvania rally
Trigger Warning: This article contains some graphic information and content that may trigger some readers. Discretion is advised.
HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA: In a viral video on X, two Secret Service snipers on a rooftop near former President Donald Trump swiftly responded to gunfire from an unidentified shooter, as per the New York Post.
The gunman, identified only as a white man, climbed onto the AGR International, Inc building and shot at Trump, injuring him from a distance of approximately 130 yards. This occurred while Trump was giving a speech at the Butler Farm Show grounds.
Check out this angle. Counter snipers see something and engage? #shooter #snipers pic.twitter.com/lD3J651SkJ
— Colagram (@coladoggxxx) July 14, 2024
Secret Service snipers take down Donald Trump's shooter
According to a senior law enforcement source who spoke with the New York Post, former President Donald Trump "came within inches of having his face shot open" before the Secret Service snipers intervened.
A local prosecutor reported that one other guest had died, and the US Secret Service confirmed that two onlookers had suffered serious injuries.
Later on Saturday, July 13, Trump made his first remarks since being sent to a hospital in the Pittsburgh region saying, "I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear."
He posted on Truth Social, "I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. 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."
He added, "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."
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. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also…
— Donald J. Trump Posts From His Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) July 14, 2024
Gunman's AR-style rifle recovered at crime scene
Sources claim that the gunman hadn't attended the demonstration and didn't have any identity on him. The Associated Press was informed by sources that his AR-style gun was found at the site.
Following the incident, the audience erupted into shouts as Trump stood and gave a fist pump, urging them to "Fight! Fight! Fight!" while Secret Service personnel encircled him.
Later, James Comer, the chairman of the House Oversight Committee (R-Ky), announced that his committee would investigate the incident and hold a public hearing with the US Secret Service chief.
He said in a statement, "I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing. The Oversight Committee will send a formal invitation soon."
He added, "My prayers are with President Trump and the victims of the assassination attempt at today’s rally in Pennsylvania. I thank the brave Secret Service members who put their lives at risk to protect President Trump and for the American patriots in the audience who helped others who were hurt."