Former U.S. President Donald Trump was seen with blood staining his right ear while being escorted by security personnel away from the stage.
CNN reported in a breaking news alert that “Trump was injured in a shooting incident at an election rally in Pennsylvania.”
U.S. President Joe Biden stated, “I have not been briefed on the shooting incident at Trump’s election rally,” according to Reuters.
Later, a Fox News correspondent, citing the White House, said: “President Biden has been briefed on the shooting incident at Trump’s election rally.”
The White House then issued a brief statement saying, “Biden has received an initial briefing on the shooting incident at Trump’s election rally.”
The U.S. Secret Service announced that it “has opened an investigation into the shooting incident and will release more information as it becomes available.”
A CNN correspondent, quoting a spokesperson for Trump, reported that “Trump is fine and is currently being examined at a local medical center.”
This was Trump’s last rally before the Republican convention, where he is expected to be officially named the Republican nominee to face Democratic rival Joe Biden in the November elections.
Live Coverage: Trump Injured During Pennsylvania Rally
Donald Trump was quickly taken off the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, after what sounded like gunshots were heard in the crowd.
The former president and Republican candidate was showing a chart of border crossing numbers at his last rally before the Republican National Convention, set to start on Monday. Suddenly, loud bangs were heard in the crowd. Trump was seen reaching toward his neck with his right hand, and there seemed to be blood on his face.
He quickly ducked behind the stage as his security agents rushed in. People in the crowd screamed while the bangs continued and agents helped Trump on stage.
Here are the latest updates (all times Eastern):
7:29 p.m.
The Associated Press reported that the shooter is dead, and one rally attendee was killed, according to the Butler County district attorney.
7:24 p.m.
The U.S. Secret Service tweeted that they have started an “active investigation” and that former President Trump is safe.
6:50 p.m.
Trump’s campaign announced that the former president is safe. “President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this terrible event. He is fine and is being checked at a local medical facility. More details will follow.”
6:15 p.m.
Possible shots were heard while Trump was speaking before he was taken off stage.
