2 men critically injured, 1 killed by shooter during assassination attempt at Butler Trump rally
One male spectator was killed and two others were critically injured during an attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally Saturday evening, July 13, state police and FBI shared at a news conference near midnight. The shooter was also killed.
No motive is known at this time, and authorities are investigating whether the shooter, a man who was shot and killed by authorities, was working alone or with others. The Butler Farm Show grounds are still considered an active crime scene.
As the investigation continues, the FBI encourages anyone with information to step forward with information by calling 1-800-CALLFBI or visiting fbi.gov/butler.
State police are also following up on reports that people saw the shooter on the roof, which was outside the perimeter, according to the news conference.
Law enforcement was called to investigate “several suspicious occurrences” before the shooting, said Lt. Col. George Bivens. Police are investigating suspicious packages, including items people may have left behind at the rally.
“Any suspicious package, we have to treat like it may be an explosive device,” Bivens said.
Authorities are not prepared Saturday night to release the identity of the shooter or the spectator who was killed, Bivens said, and are planning a follow-up news conference.
Authorities are looking at DNA and photographs to identify the shooter. The victims have been identified, but authorities said they are not ready to release that information.
He said there is no longer a threat to the public.
As the FBI partners with local and state police, Bivens said residents can expect to see a possibly increased law enforcement presence in their communities.
Special Agent Kevin Rojek said the FBI will take the lead on the assassination attempt, while state police will investigate the fatality and shootings of other individuals.
Eagle Assignment Editor Tracy Leturgey contributed to this report.
