Second Suspect in Donald Trump Assassination Attempt Charged with Firearms Offenses

Ryan Wesley Rout, 58, faces two firearms charges and potential additional charges in connection with the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump.

Charges and Investigation

On September 16, 2024, Rout was charged with possession of firearms while a convicted felon and possessing a gun with a destroyed registration number. Further charges may be added as the investigation proceeds.

Rout is scheduled to appear in court on September 23 regarding his detention. The prosecution has requested that he be held pending the outcome of the investigation.

Background and Motive

Initial investigations reveal that Rout, the owner of a small construction company in Hawaii, planned to target Trump while he was playing golf at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on February 15, 2024.

Secret police noticed the muzzle of Rout’s gun sticking out of a hedge, prompting them to intervene and block him. Rout fled the scene but was later apprehended on a nearby highway.

Online Activity and Financial Situation

Officials report that Rout had previously posted online messages criticizing Trump and was a strong supporter of Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. At the time of the incident, Rout had a monthly income of $3,000 and no assets other than two pickup trucks in Hawaii.

Trump’s Response

Trump has blamed Joe Biden and Kamala Harris for Rout’s actions, claiming that the suspect was influenced by their words. “Almost every one of their persuasive words struck me,” Trump said in an interview with Fox News. “Although I am a person who is going to help this country, and they are the ones who are destroying the country, from the outside and the inside.”