Florida, USA — A Florida jury has found Ryan Routh guilty of attempting to assassinate U.S. President and current presidential candidate Donald Trump during an incident at Trump’s golf course last year.
The case dates back to September 15, 2024, when Trump was playing golf at his West Palm Beach golf course, located about 15 minutes from his Mar-a-Lago residence. According to court documents, Routh, 59, attempted to fire a rifle from a concealed position in the bushes near the course. Secret Service agents spotted the barrel of the weapon before shots were fired and immediately responded. Routh fled the scene but was apprehended nearby within minutes.
Court Verdict and Reactions
Routh faced multiple charges, including attempting to assassinate a presidential candidate and unlawful possession of firearms. The court convicted him on all counts. During the sentencing phase, Routh reportedly attempted to harm himself by stabbing his neck with a pen before U.S. Marshals intervened to stop him.
Following the verdict, Trump issued a statement on social media thanking law enforcement officers and witnesses who helped in Routh’s arrest. He described Routh as “an evil man with evil intentions” and called the verdict “a great moment for American justice.”
U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi also reacted strongly, stating: “This was not just an attack on a presidential candidate, but an attack on our nation itself.”
