West Palm Beach, Fla., September 15, 2024 — Former U.S. President and 2024 Republican nominee Donald Trump narrowly escaped an alleged assassination attempt while golfing at Trump International Golf Club. Authorities identified the suspect as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, who was discovered hiding in nearby shrubs and aiming a rifle at a Secret Service agent. No injuries were reported.
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Trump was playing golf with his friend and donor Steve Witkoff when a Secret Service agent conducting a sweep spotted Routh approximately 400 yards away. The agent fired at Routh, who dropped his weapon and fled in a black Nissan SUV. Witnesses helped track the vehicle, leading to his arrest in Martin County. Inside his car, investigators found 17 cell phones, a modified SKS-style rifle with its serial number removed, ammunition, ceramic plates, food supplies, and a GoPro camera.
Routh being detained after the incident
Routh, a longtime North Carolina resident with a history of criminal charges, had previously expressed regret over supporting Trump and called for his assassination in self-published writings. He also claimed ties to Ukraine’s military efforts against Russia, though Ukrainian officials denied any connection. His political record shows donations to Democratic causes and online activity critical of Trump.
On September 24, 2024, Routh was indicted on five federal counts, including attempting to assassinate a presidential candidate. Additional charges followed, including attempted felony murder in December and attempted first-degree murder and terrorism in April 2025. Routh has pleaded not guilty. His trial began on September 8, 2025, and he could face life in prison if convicted. He was granted the right to represent himself, though standby counsel remains assigned.
The golf club had long been considered a potential security risk, with open perimeters often accessible to paparazzi. Officials noted that as a former president, Trump did not receive the same level of perimeter security as an incumbent. The incident occurred just two months after Trump was wounded in the ear during a separate assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania.
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris issued statements condemning political violence and expressing relief at Trump’s safety. Elon Musk faced backlash and a Secret Service inquiry after posting a controversial comment on X, later deleted, regarding the attack.
The case highlights ongoing threats to high-profile political figures and raises questions about the adequacy of security protections for former presidents engaged in active campaigns.
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