Authorities arrested Ryan Wesley Routh for his second attempt on former President Trump’s life.
At a Glance
- Routh is accused of attempting to assassinate Trump by aiming a rifle at a Florida golf course.
- He faces federal gun charges and aggravated assault.
- Routh was apprehended after an exchange of gunfire with a Secret Service agent.
- Authorities recovered a rifle, scope, and other items at the scene.
- Routh has a criminal history dating back to the 1990s.
Suspect Arrested Near Trump’s Golf Course
Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, was apprehended by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office following an attempt to assassinate former President Donald Trump. Routh, married and an atheist, was found near Trump’s golf course with a rifle. Although there were no signs of drug or alcohol influence, a Secret Service agent spotted Routh, prompting an exchange of gunfire. He now faces federal gun charges and aggravated assault.
Routh faces two federal charges: possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. These charges could lead to a maximum of 20 years in prison. Details from the encounter indicate that Routh was allegedly 300-500 yards away from Trump when spotted by a Secret Service agent. The agent fired at Routh, who did not fire back. Routh fled the scene in a black Nissan SUV and was later detained.
FOX News Digital identified the would-be Trump assassin as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh. Here's what we know about the alleged suspect. https://t.co/idVT8T8n1p
— KTVU (@KTVU) September 17, 2024
Authorities Recover Evidence
Law enforcement recovered an AK-47-style rifle, a scope, two backpacks with ceramic tile, and a GoPro camera at the scene. DNA evidence is being examined. Routh’s lengthy criminal history includes charges ranging from writing bad checks to possession of a weapon of mass destruction.
Despite his criminal background, Routh’s son described him as a non-violent, hardworking individual. Routh’s critical stance against Trump and his support for Democratic candidates were well-documented. He was also passionate about supporting Ukraine, traveling to Kyiv and promoting foreign enlistment in the Ukrainian military.
Who is Ryan Wesley Routh, suspect in Trump assassination attempt? https://t.co/njg1pB9DCK
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) September 16, 2024
Public and Official Reactions
Routh’s previous involvement in legal issues includes tax delinquencies and bad checks. His sons expressed disbelief over the allegations, describing him as a loving and caring father. Routh’s arraignment observed him appearing subdued and respectful, qualifying for a federal public defender due to lack of assets.
“Routh did not fire his gun and did not have Trump in his ‘line of sight,’ Secret Service acting director Ronald Rowe said on Monday.
Attorney General Merrick Garland conveyed relief over Trump’s safety and assured commitment to accountability. The FBI continues its investigation into the apparent assassination attempt on Trump. Ukrainians, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, condemned the attempt. Trump’s security detail remains vigilant to protect the former President from any further threats.
