Diyar Güldoğan
16 September 2024•Update: 16 September 2024
WASHINGTON
US President Joe Biden said he is "relieved" that Republican candidate Donald Trump is unharmed after a possible assassination attempt Sunday in Florida.
"I have been briefed by my team regarding what federal law enforcement is investigating as a possible assassination attempt of former President Trump today.
"A suspect is in custody, and I commend the work of the Secret Service and their law enforcement partners for their vigilance and their efforts to keep the former President and those around him safe," Biden said in a statement.
His statement came after Trump campaign Communications Director Steven Cheung issued a statement saying Trump was "safe” following an apparent assassination attempt against him while he was golfing on his course in West Palm Beach.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said it is investigating the incident as a possible assassination attempt on the former president.
Biden said there is an "active investigation" into the incident as law enforcement gathers more details about what happened.
"As I have said many times, there is no place for political violence or for any violence ever in our country, and I have directed my team to continue to ensure that the Secret Service has every resource, capability and protective measure necessary to ensure the former President’s continued safety," he added.
The incident occurred two months after Trump was wounded during an assassination attempt on July 13, when Thomas Matthew Crooks, a lone 20-year-old gunman, opened fire on him during a campaign rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania, grazing his right ear.
Law enforcement officials in Florida told reporters that they apprehended a suspect who was spotted by US Secret Service agents with an AK-47-style assault rifle outside Trump’s golf club.
The US Secret Service personnel opened fire on the gunman located near the property line, said a Secret Service official.
Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw said the gunman then dropped his rifle, two backpacks and a GoPro video camera and fled in a black SUV.
The sheriff said a witness saw the gunman and managed to take photos of his car and license plate.
"We have somebody in custody right now that is a potential suspect," said Bradshaw.
Harris 'deeply disturbed' by possible assassination attempt of Trump
Vice President and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris said she is "deeply disturbed" by the possible assassination attempt on Trump.
"As we gather the facts, I will be clear: I condemn political violence. We all must do our part to ensure that this incident does not lead to more violence," Harris said in a statement.
She added that she is thankful that her Republican rival is "safe."
"I commend the US Secret Service and law enforcement partners for their vigilance. As President Biden said, our Administration will ensure the Secret Service has every resource, capability, and protective measure necessary to carry out its critical mission," she stressed.
Trump said he is "safe," adding there were "gunshots in my vicinity, but before rumors start spiraling out of control, I wanted you to hear this first: I AM SAFE AND WELL!"
"Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER!" he added.
