Former US President Donald Trump injured in Pennsylvania rally shooting, one dead

Former US President Donald Trump has provided his first personal account of a shooting incident that occurred during his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump stated that a bullet "pierced" the upper part of his right ear, causing bleeding and immediate discomfort.

 

The incident, which took place on Saturday, resulted in one fatality and one critically injured spectator. Trump expressed condolences to the affected families and thanked the US Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift response.

 

According to the US Secret Service, the suspected shooter fired multiple shots from an elevated position outside the rally venue. Secret Service personnel neutralised the shooter, who is now deceased. Law enforcement sources reported that the gunman used an AR-style rifle from a distance of 200-300 feet, firing from atop a shed outside the security perimeter.

 

Trump described hearing a "whizzing sound" and feeling the bullet rip through his skin. He was immediately escorted off stage and taken to Butler Memorial Hospital. The former president later left the hospital, though his destination was unclear.

 

The incident disrupted Trump's campaign rally and came months before the 2024 US presidential elections. It has raised concerns about security at political events and the potential for violence in the lead-up to the election.

 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has been formally notified, and an investigation into the incident is ongoing.