Two Dead, Including an Apparent Shooter, at Trump Rally in Pennsylvania

Former president Donald Trump was rushed off the stage at a campaign rally in Butler, PA after shots were heard minutes after the rally began. Trump was having his audience look at a large screen to his right, explaining data, when he put his hand to his right ear and ducked after the first of several pops. Secret Service agents surrounded him and took him off the stage, his face streaked with what appeared to be blood. Trump raised his fist a couple times shouting “fight, fight, fight,” before being taken by Secret Service to a local hospital.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said two people are dead, including the apparent shooter, according to the Associated Press.

The Secret Service said “the former president is safe.” Trump’s campaign said he is being treated.

Many witnesses heard several shots.

This was Trump’s last rally before the Republican National Convention begins in Milwaukee, WI on Monday. There was also speculation Trump was going to name his Vice Presidential pick this evening.

Former President Barack Obama said: “There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we don’t yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasn’t seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.”

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) posted on social media that he was sending his “thoughts and prayers” to former president Trump.

“I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable,” he tweeted.

Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy said: ”Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family.”

Photo credit: NBC News