Video footage of a Trump campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on 13 July showed the former president dive to the ground followed by the close encirclement of his Secret Service team after what appeared to be gunshots. Counter-sniper agents shot and killed the suspected shooter located on a rooftop 400 to 500 feet (120 to 150 meters) from the podium. At least one bystander was killed, while President Trump appeared to sustain an injury to the ear. The Secret Service is now investigating what the FBI considers to be an assassination attempt.
The incident underscores concerns over political violence surrounding the November elections. The type of rhetoric, unrest, and violence that culminated in the 2017 Congressional baseball shooting and the 6 January 2021 Capitol attack are more likely to surface.
Situation Report
- President Trump was grazed by a bullet but is unharmed after receiving a medical evaluation.
- At least one bystander was killed and two others were injured.
- The shooter was neutralized by law enforcement counter-snipers.
- An investigation is ongoing to ascertain how the gunman was able to access the location.
Analysis
- The shooting raises concerns over security at political rallies, and underscores the ongoing need to be vigilant at future rallies, speeches, and the Republican and Democratic National Conventions (RNC and DNC).
- There are worries that radical supporters of Trump could use this shooting as an excuse to carry out their own version of vigilante justice, targeting Democrats, progressive organizations, and anyone else they feel does not support Trump.
- Security will be enhanced at both the RNC being held this week (15 July to18 July) in Milwaukee and the DNC, being held in Chicago in late August. Attendees should anticipate additional delays associated with security screening.
Recommendations
- Prepare for retaliatory violence.
- If offices are near government or campaign sites, review active shooter response plans and plan to close offices in the event of protests or unrest.
STANDING BY TO Support
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