By Emmanuel Nduka
The campaign team of former US President Donald Trump reported Sunday that there had been “gunshots in his vicinity” but added that the Republican presidential candidate was safe.
“President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity. No further details at this time,” a statement from his campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said.
Trump had been golfing at his course in West Palm Beach, Florida, not far from his Mar-a-Lago residence, during a day away from the presidential campaign, multiple media reports said.
The shooting took place on the grounds of the golf course, and a “person of interest” has been detained along with a weapon, the New York Times reported, citing local law enforcement officials.
Trump had been accompanied at the time by his Secret Service protective detail — as is standard practice — when shots were fired.
Multiple reports said a weapon, reportedly an AK-47 style rifle, was recovered.
But it was unclear who the shooter or shooters were, or what the motive was. There was no immediate indication that Trump had been targeted.
Still, it came amid heightened concern for the safety of both candidates — just two months after the former president was wounded in the ear when a gunman opened fire during a Trump rally in Pennsylvania.
The White House quickly issued a statement saying both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump’s Democratic rival in the November elections, had been briefed about the incident.
“They are relieved to know that he is safe,” the statement said.
The US Secret Service, tasked with protecting presidents, former presidents and other dignitaries, faced criticism after the Pennsylvania incident.
Kimberly Cheatle, the head of the agency, resigned amid the ensuing scrutiny, and at least five Secret Service agents were placed on administrative leave.
Cheatle acknowledged in her letter of resignation that the agency “fell short” of its mission to protect the nation’s leaders.
