Donald Trump Safe Following Reports of Gunshots Near Him in Florida

Donald Trump was unharmed after gunshots were reported near him on Sunday afternoon in Florida, according to his campaign and the Secret Service. The incident occurred shortly before 2 pm, but it remains unclear if the shots were aimed at the Republican presidential nominee. "The former president is safe," stated the Secret Service.

Investigation Underway

The US Secret Service is investigating the incident. A law enforcement official, who requested anonymity, mentioned that authorities are trying to determine whether the shots were fired near Trump's West Palm Beach golf course or on its grounds. This official was not authorised to speak publicly and shared information with The Associated Press under anonymity.

Trump's campaign has not provided further details about the incident. No injuries were reported, according to a spokesperson for the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office in Florida. The White House confirmed that President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris had been briefed and would receive updates on the investigation. They expressed relief that Trump is safe.

Increased Security Measures

Since an assassination attempt two months ago in Pennsylvania, where a bullet grazed Trump's ear, security around him has intensified. When he stays at Trump Tower in New York, dump trucks form a barrier outside the building. At outdoor rallies, he now speaks from behind bulletproof glass.

Trump returned to Florida this weekend after a West Coast trip that included a rally in Las Vegas on Friday night and a fundraiser in Utah. He often spends mornings playing golf before having lunch at the Trump International Golf Club West Palm Beach, one of three clubs he owns in Florida.

Max Egusquiza, a resident of Palm Beach, described the emergency response near Trump's golf course. "From what I saw, five black unmarked SUVs blocked in a grey Mercedes in front of the golf course. There were about 20 or more cop cars flying from nearby streets," he said.

A message sent to campaign officials seeking information on the security status and location of Ohio Sen. JD Vance, Trump's running mate, was not immediately returned.

The situation remains under investigation as authorities work to uncover more details about the gunshots near Trump's vicinity.