Former President Trump’s rally on Saturday abruptly ended after loud noises that sounded like gunshots rang out while he was speaking in Butler, Pa.
Trump could be seen holding his ear after some of the first pops rang out before dropping down below the lectern. Secret Service agents swarmed on top of him as screams could be heard from the crowd. They led him off stage surrounding his entire body.
The Secret Service said in a statement that the former president was safe and the incident was being investigated.
Police would not confirm the nature of the incident. Trump was making remarks about immigration when the apparent gunshots were suddenly heard.
In a statement, Trump’s campaign said he was “fine” and being checked at a medical facility.
“President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow,” Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a statement.
Before he was escorted off stage, Trump could be seen pumping his fist in the air, with the crowd cheering.
A Secret Service spokesman confirmed in a post on X that Trump was safe.
“An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania,” wrote Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the U.S. Secret Service. “The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.”
The White House said President Biden had received an initial briefing on the incident, which occurred just days before the start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Monday.
Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) also wrote in a post on X that he, too, had been briefed on the incident.
“Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States,” he wrote. “I have been briefed on the situation. @PAStatePolice are on the scene in Butler County and working with our federal and local.”
The Hill has reached out to Butler, Pa. Police and Pennsylvania State Police for further comment.
The Hill
