Former President Donald Trump was shot in the ear during his rally in Butler, PA. Three shots rang out, catching Trump mid-word. In the live coverage footage, he could be seen reaching for his ear after the first shot, then crouching down behind the podium. He remained down, surrounded by security personnel, for about a minute, then rose with his security and was escorted off stage.
Several more gunshots rang out in rapid succession moments after the initial three and after the former president was down and covered by security. Then what seems like another shot – which sounded different and may well have been from a different caliber weapon – could be heard. Shortly after, some agents yelled, “shooter’s down.”
Trump can be heard telling his protectors to “let me get my shoes” as they all rise together. Then, as they tried to form a shield around him, obscuring his entire form behind their own bodies, Trump said, “wait, wait, wait,” as he stuck his head and arm out to be seen and pumped his fist in the air to reassure the crowd he was okay. The crowd, only moments before ducking and screaming in fear, began cheering and chanting, “USA!” as security forces escorted the former president off stage, to a vehicle, and away from the scene.
The Trump campaign later reported that the former president had arrived at the hospital and that he says he’s fine and “thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act.” One person at the rally was reportedly killed and another two critically injured in the shooting, and the shooter was killed by the Secret Service.
This is a breaking story. Stay tuned for updates as they become available.
