In a recent twist in the ongoing saga of threats against former President Donald Trump, new revelations have surfaced about the individual accused of the second assassination attempt.
This latest suspect, Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, never actually fired his weapon and was unable to get a clear shot at Trump before he fled.
The Suspect and His Background
Routh, who was apprehended just 50 miles from the scene, was already on the radar of law enforcement.
Since 2019, the FBI had been aware of him following a tip about his possible possession of a firearm.
However, this tip was never substantiated.
The FBI, Secret Service, and other officials have clarified that Routh appeared to be acting alone, despite various conspiracy theories.
The Scene of the Incident
On Sunday, Routh left behind a troubling array of items at Trump International Golf Club.
These included a loaded AK-47-style rifle, two bags, a digital camera, and ceramic bulletproof armor.
Special Agent Jeffrey Veltri from the Miami FBI Field Office stated that there’s no indication Routh was working with others.
The incident unfolded when an agent spotted the muzzle of Routh’s rifle from the shrubbery around the golf course where Trump was playing.
Details from the Press Conference
At a press conference, Acting U.S. Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe shared that Routh did not have a direct line of sight to Trump and did not fire any shots.
After fleeing the scene, Routh was eventually caught thanks to a witness who reported the stolen black Nissan SUV he was driving, providing crucial information to law enforcement.
Legal Proceedings and Background
In court, Routh faced charges for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and for having a gun with an obliterated serial number.
Wearing a black prison uniform, he appeared briefly at the Paul G Rogers Federal Courthouse.
The origin of his rifle remains unclear since it’s not legally available for purchase in Florida, and its serial number has been destroyed.
Routh’s criminal history includes a 2002 conviction in North Carolina for weapon law violations and terrorist threats, and a notable standoff with law enforcement.
Despite a 2019 tip to the FBI about his firearm possession, the information was never verified.
Moving Forward
Since the attack in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13, where Trump was shot, the U.S. Secret Service has revamped its security protocols for the 2024 presidential nominee.
Acting Director Rowe emphasized the need for a proactive rather than reactive security model, highlighting the potential for future threats and the importance of rigorous daily security measures.
The investigation continues, with FBI offices in North Carolina and Hawaii reaching out to Routh’s acquaintances.
The Secret Service is adjusting its strategies to ensure better protection, reflecting on past incidents to improve future responses.