According to Donald Trump’s team, there were “gunshots in his vicinity” on Sunday, but the Republican presidential candidate remained safe.
“President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity. No further details at this time,” said a statement from his campaign spokesman Steven Cheung.
Trump had gone golfing at his course in West Palm Beach, Florida, not far from his Mar-a-Lago estate, on a day off from the presidential campaign, according to several media accounts.
According to the New York Times, a “person of interest” has been apprehended, along with a weapon, following the shooting on the golf course grounds.
When shots were fired, Trump was escorted by his Secret Service protective detail, which is routine practice.
According to accounts, an AK-47-style firearm was seized.
It remained unclear who the shooter(s) were or what their motive was. There were no apparent signs that Trump had been targeted.
Nonetheless, it occurred amid increased worry for both candidates’ safety, barely two months after the former president was shot in the ear during a Trump rally in Pennsylvania.
The White House promptly published a statement claiming that both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump’s Democratic opponent in the November election, had been briefed about the event.
“They are relieved to know that he is safe,” the statement said.
The US Secret Service, which is responsible for protecting presidents, previous presidents, and other dignitaries, came under fire following the Pennsylvania incident.
Kimberly Cheatle, the agency’s director, resigned amid the ensuing investigation, and at least five Secret Service personnel were placed on administrative leave.
Cheatle admitted in her letter of resignation that the agency “fell short” of its mandate to protect the country’s leaders.