Former President Trump was rushed off stage by Secret Service at Pennsylvania rally after possible shots heard; spokesperson confirms he is unharmed

Former President Trump was rushed off stage by Secret Service at Pennsylvania rally after possible shots heard; spokesperson confirms he is unharmed

Former President Donald Trump was swarmed by Secret Service agents and rushed off stage as possible shots were heard during at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

There appeared to be blood on his right ear as he was being taken off stage.

The Secret Service is assessing the incident, and have not confirmed it was actual shots.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa.

Evan Vucci/AP

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024.

Gene J. Puskar/AP

Trump began his speech at about 6 p.m. and was only shortly into his speech when a disturbance caused Secret Service to swarm the former president. He was then led off the stage quickly, pumping his fist.

A spokesperson for Trump said in a statement, “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.”

Heavily armed security personnel got on stage as he was led off.

“An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania,” the Secret Service said in a statement. “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 in a statement, “The President has received an initial briefing on the incident at Former President Trump’s rally.”

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa.

Evan Vucci/AP

Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, a possible vice president pick, wrote on social media, “Everyone join me in praying for our President Trump and everyone at that rally. I hope everyone is ok.”

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, a possible vice presidential pick, posted to X, calling for prayers for the former president.

“Please join Kathryn and me in praying for President Trump, his family and everyone attending the rally today.”

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa.

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Another vice presidential hopeful, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, also posted on X asking for prayers for Trump and those at the rally.

“Praying for President Trump and all those attending the rally in Pennsylvania today.”

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Former President Donald Trump was rushed off stage by Secret Service agents during a rally in Pennsylvania after possible shots were heard in the area. The incident occurred on Saturday evening at the rally in Washington Township, just outside of Pittsburgh.

According to reports, Trump was in the middle of his speech when the commotion began. Secret Service agents quickly surrounded him and escorted him off stage. The crowd was reportedly confused and panicked as they were told to stay calm and remain in place.

A spokesperson for the former president confirmed that Trump was unharmed and later returned to finish his speech. The Secret Service later released a statement saying that there was no threat to the former president and that the incident was under investigation.

This incident highlights the continued security concerns surrounding high-profile political figures, especially in a highly charged political climate. The safety of public officials, including former presidents, is of utmost importance, and incidents like this serve as a reminder of the risks they face.

It is unclear at this time what exactly caused the commotion or if any shots were actually fired. The investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming days.

Overall, the swift response of the Secret Service in ensuring the safety of former President Trump is commendable. It is a stark reminder of the dangers that public figures face and the importance of having security measures in place to protect them.