Former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt on Saturday at a Pennsylvania rally.
The shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by Secret Service agents, but conspiracy theories about a second shooter quickly spread on social media, as CBS News reports.
The attempt on Trump's life occurred shortly after 6 p.m. Local law enforcement and U.S. Secret Service identified the shooter as Crooks, who was neutralized almost immediately.
Alleged misinformation flooded platforms such as X (formerly known as Twitter) and Reddit in the aftermath of the incident. Visuals purportedly showing a second shooter on a nearby water tower contributed to the frenzy.
A number of authorities, journalists, and eyewitness accounts firmly contradicted these claims. Crooks was on a roof near the tower, with officials declaring that he had no accomplices.
Blurred videos on social media made questionable claims about additional activity on the nearby water tower. Posts featuring this content gained traction, spreading the theory further.
On some X posts, community notes were added to debunk the second shooter myth. Despite these attempts, the theory persisted and confused many viewers. An eyewitness in a Fox News interview mentioned a supposed additional shooter. Such statements only fueled what many are calling a dangerous conspiracy theory.
CBS News reviewed footage and confirmed no person was on the water tower. The supposed shadows were explained as the Pennsylvania American Water logo and a vent, not human figures.
Experts emphasized the danger of sharing unverified information amid significant news events. Other sources stressed the notion that premature conclusions can wreak havoc and distort public understanding.
CBS News also shared best practices for social media users to ensure responsible information dissemination. One primary recommendation was verifying sources before sharing content.
Following the assassination attempt, former President Trump was unharmed. The sole assailant, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was quickly incapacitated by the Secret Service.
Despite what many say is clear evidence to the contrary, theories alleging a second shooter spread rapidly. Local law enforcement and multiple credible sources confirmed only one shooter, situated near the water tower.
The quick spread of highly debatable information underscores the critical need for caution when sharing news on social media.
Christina Sandera, Clint Eastwood’s partner for the past decade, has died at the age of 61.
Eastwood expressed his sorrow over the loss of Sandera in a statement, but details about her passing remain undisclosed, as the Daily Caller reports.
The couple met at the Mission Ranch Hotel and Restaurant in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, where Sandera worked as a hostess. Their relationship began after this encounter and endured for the next decade.
In a statement released Thursday night, the legendary actor shared his grief. “Christina was a lovely, caring woman, and I will miss her very much,” Eastwood stated, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
The circumstances surrounding Sandera’s death have not been revealed. A spokesperson from Warner Bros. confirmed that no additional information would be provided.
Christina Sandera and Clint Eastwood made their red carpet debut as a couple at the 2015 Academy Awards. The couple’s relationship was notably private, with Eastwood generally keeping details of his romantic life out of the media.
Eastwood, 94, has had a varied and often public love life prior to Sandera. His first marriage was to model Maggie Johnson in 1953, a union that lasted 11 years.
Eastwood later married journalist Dina Ruiz, with their marriage spanning from 1996 to 2014. Besides his marriages, Eastwood was involved in a long-term relationship with stuntwoman Roxanne Tunis.
Additionally, the actor-director had a notable, 14-year relationship with Oscar-nominated actress Sondra Locke. During their time together, they collaborated on four films.
Eastwood has also been linked to flight attendant Jacelyn Reeves and actress Frances Fisher. Despite these various relationships, Eastwood’s bond with Sandera was unique for its longevity and discretion.
The couple’s low-key relationship had been a subject of curiosity. Sandera was often a supportive presence by Eastwood’s side at various industry events.
Christina Sandera’s connection with Eastwood began at a notable retreat in Carmel-by-the-Sea, furthering her position in his life both personally and publicly.
It is clear that her presence will be sorely missed by those close to the couple.
According to Axios, President Biden has announced that he would consider exiting the 2024 presidential race if diagnosed with a significant health issue.
Amid growing pressures from Democratic lawmakers and voters, Biden made this statement during a pre-taped interview with BET News.
The President expressed his willingness to withdraw from the race if doctors presented him with serious health concerns. "If doctors came to me and said, you got this problem and that problem," Biden mentioned in the interview footage released by BET.
Following his debate performance, Biden has frequently appeared in the media to address concerns about his mental sharpness, reiterating that he would reconsider his campaign if a medical condition arose. He acknowledged seeing himself as a transitional figure in American politics, ready to pass the baton to another leader but expressed a reluctance to abandon his current tasks.
"There’s more to do and I’m reluctant to walk away from that," Biden emphasized. This sentiment underscores the challenges he faces in reconciling his commitment to the presidency with concerns about his age and health.
The debate performance has increased pressure from within his party for Biden to step aside. Representative Adam Schiff from California has recently become the most high-profile Democrat to publicly suggest that Biden withdraws from the race.
Public sentiment echoes this internal party pressure, with nearly two-thirds of Democratic voters expressing a preference for Biden to drop out, according to a recent poll released on Wednesday. Despite the mounting pressures, Biden remains defiant about his mental state. Earlier this month, in an interview with ABC News, he declared that he would step down only if the "Lord Almighty" commanded him to do so.
He has also been clear about not subjecting himself to a cognitive test, asserting confidently that his "mental acuity’s been pretty damn good." This staunch defense highlights Biden’s determination to remain in the race despite growing doubts.
The announcement has added fuel to the existing turbulence within the Democratic Party. Biden's potential reconsideration of his candidacy is seen as a critical point for the party, which is currently grappling with internal rifts and varied demands from its members.
The divisions within the party are becoming more pronounced as the 2024 election looms closer, with many seeking a fresh face to lead the Democratic ticket. Despite the pressures and criticisms, Biden remains focused on the work at hand. His reluctance to abandon the presidency stems from his belief in the necessity of continued progress and addressing the divisions within the country.
During the interview, Biden did not dismiss the possibility of stepping aside but rather mentioned that it would be a decision contingent upon serious medical advice. This balance of reluctance and openness to step aside reflects the intricate scenario Biden is navigating.
Despite his role as a transitional candidate, Biden is reluctant to abandon the ongoing work, yet faces growing calls from lawmakers and voters to step down. High-profile figures like Rep. Adam Schiff have publicly urged for Biden's withdrawal, aligning with a significant portion of the Democratic electorate.
Biden remains steadfast about his mental sharpness and has ruled out a cognitive test, underlining his determination to stay in the race. As the Democratic Party battles internal divisions, Biden’s potential reconsideration introduces a pivotal moment for the party as it prepares for the 2024 election.
Former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where former firefighter Corey Comperatore was killed protecting his family.
Daily Mail reported that Trump contacted Corey Comperatore's widow, Helen, to offer his condolences and resumed his campaign activities shortly after.
Corey Comperatore, a retired firefighter, was fatally shot while shielding his wife and daughter during an attempt on Trump's life. The shooter, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired from 130 yards away using an AR-style rifle.
Following the incident, Helen Comperatore revealed details of Trump’s heartfelt phone call on Facebook. Helen shared that Trump expressed sympathy and promised to check in on her in the coming days and weeks.
Helen declined a call from President Joe Biden, citing her husband’s political views. She explained that Corey, a devoted Republican, would not have wanted her to speak with Biden.
Corey and Helen were nearing their 29th wedding anniversary when the tragic event occurred. Helen described her husband as a simple man who always prioritized his family.
The rally, meant to be a family outing, turned tragic when Crooks opened fire. Corey was shot in the head while trying to protect his family, his last words being a warning for them to get down.
An emergency room doctor at the scene performed CPR on Corey, but his injuries were too severe. The doctor recalled hearing the shots and initially mistaking them for firecrackers before realizing the gravity of the situation.
The shooter’s ability to position himself 130 yards away from Trump has raised questions, prompting an ongoing investigation. Authorities are looking into how Crooks managed to get so close with a firearm.
Former President Trump himself was grazed in the right ear by a bullet. Despite the close call, Trump was swiftly evacuated by the Secret Service, yet he showed resistance by chanting “fight, fight, fight” as he was led away.
Two days after the shooting, Trump appeared at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Sporting a bandage on his right ear, he accepted his party's nomination and announced Senator J.D. Vance as his running mate.
Helen Comperatore's account of her husband's heroism and the subsequent events highlights the personal impact of political violence. She emphasized that Corey’s actions reflected his character, protecting his family until his last breath.
In summary, the tragic event at the Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, resulted in the death of Corey Comperatore, who protected his family during an assassination attempt on Trump. Trump's heartfelt call to Corey’s widow, Helen, contrasted with her refusal to speak with Biden, underscoring the personal and political dimensions of the tragedy.
As reported by Daily Mail, a new video has emerged showing the immediate aftermath of an attempted assassination on former President Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
The attack, which occurred eight minutes into Trump's speech, resulted in significant chaos and the death of one attendee.
The video reveals the chaotic scene as Secret Service agents swiftly surrounded and shielded Trump after the gunfire. Among the confusion, Trump can be seen asking the agents for his shoes, which had been removed during the scuffle.
Photos taken after the incident show a ladder hidden behind trees leading to the roof of the nearby AGR building. This ladder is believed to have been used by Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old who positioned himself on the rooftop to carry out the attack.
Witnesses reported seeing Crooks acting suspiciously before the attack, including using a rangefinder and climbing with a backpack. Despite these warnings, Crooks managed to open fire 26 minutes after being spotted, resulting in one fatality and injuries to three others.
Law enforcement and the Secret Service are facing scrutiny for perceived lapses in security, with local police and Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle under intense pressure. Cheatle has stated she will not resign despite the criticism.
Secret Service snipers ultimately neutralized Crooks, who was killed after causing the fatal injury to one rally attendee. The swift action of the snipers prevented further casualties and secured the area.
During the attack, Trump was tackled to the ground by agents, resulting in his shoes being removed. Video footage shows agents tossing Trump's shoes off the stage, leading to his repeated requests for them afterward.
Trump later commented on the incident, explaining that the agents hit him so hard that his shoes fell off despite being tight. He praised the agents for their quick response, calling their actions "fantastic" and describing the experience as surreal.
An emergency room doctor on site performed CPR on the fatally wounded victim, who had sustained severe head injuries. Despite the efforts, the victim succumbed to their injuries.
Trump, who suffered minor injuries, including a bruise on his arm and a cut on his cheek, expressed his desire to return to the podium and continue speaking despite the shooting. He made his first public appearance following the attack at the Republican National Convention's opening night in Milwaukee.
The release of the new video has reignited discussions about the effectiveness of security measures at public events and the responsibilities of law enforcement agencies in protecting high-profile individuals. The video provides a stark reminder of the ever-present risks faced by public figures and the crucial role of the Secret Service in mitigating these threats.
In summary, the attempted assassination of former President Trump at a Pennsylvania rally has led to intense scrutiny of security measures, the quick response of the Secret Service, and the subsequent neutralization of the shooter. Trump's minor injuries and his requests for his shoes amidst the chaos have become a focal point of the incident, highlighting the unpredictable nature of such attacks.
According to Daily Mail, Thomas Matthew Crooks, who graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022, bought 50 rounds of ammunition just before the shooting took place, raising concerns about the timing and planning of his actions.
Despite serious security failures, including a missed rooftop sweep by the Secret Service, Trump survived with only a minor injury.
Authorities revealed that the Secret Service did not inspect the rooftop from which Crooks ultimately fired at Trump. The failure to sweep the roof was among a series of security lapses that came to light after the incident.
The would-be assassin positioned himself just 130 yards from Trump, utilizing an AR-style rifle previously legally purchased by his father. One bullet grazed Trump's ear, but his campaign noted he was otherwise unharmed.
Video footage surfaced on Monday displaying Trump supporters spotting Crooks on the rooftop and expressing their confusion about his presence. "Look, they're all pointing," one individual was recorded saying.
Numerous witnesses alerted law enforcement to a gunman at the top of the building, yet officers did not act promptly enough. The rooftop had been identified as a potential security threat, though it was only examined by local law enforcement.
Although Trump escaped with minor injuries, Former fire chief Corey Comperatore, 50, tragically lost his life trying to protect his family during the attack. His bravery in shielding his wife and two daughters was acknowledged in the aftermath.
David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74, incurred critical injuries but are currently declared 'stable,' according to medical officials. The bullet that injured Trump clipped his ear as he turned to observe a jumbotron showing immigration statistics; aides believe this action may have saved his life.
The deadly event was caught on camera by a Trump supporter, with the gunman being clearly visible moments before opening fire. "There he is, right there. See him?" the camera operator pointed out in the video.
The video was obtained by Annie Dance, a journalist based in North Carolina. It included text noting the ample time and opportunity to neutralize the threat.
Crooks is a registered Republican and made a $15 donation in early 2021 to a progressive group supporting President Joe Biden, showcasing an unusual mix of political affiliations.
The Bethel Park School District has confirmed Crooks' graduation and is cooperating fully with investigative authorities to understand his motivations and background. The school district's assistance is part of a broader effort to piece together the events leading up to the attack.
Thomas Matthew Crooks purchased ammunition hours before attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump during a speech in Butler, Pennsylvania. Security lapses, including a missed rooftop sweep by the Secret Service, culminated in Trump sustaining a minor injury with a bullet clipping his ear.
An attempted assassination of Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, has sparked significant concerns regarding security failures.
Daily Mail reported that Frank Figliuzzi, an FBI agent for 25 years, believes failures in communication between the Secret Service and local law enforcement may be to blame for not preventing the Trump assassination attempt.
On the day of the rally, the shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks stationed himself on the roof of a building only 150 yards from the stage. Crowds spotted him and attempted to alert security, but their warnings went unanswered for several minutes. Crooks used a high-powered semi-automatic rifle, potentially an AR-15, to carry out his attack.
Security for the rally likely involved coordination between the Secret Service and local police, with the former handling the enclosed perimeter and the latter covering the broader area. Standard procedures required clear assignment of roles for each post and zone. This division, familiar to both agencies, is fundamental to effective security planning.
However, the local police might have had limited experience with political events, affecting their readiness. News footage also depicted soldiers in camouflage, presumed to be National Guard members, whose responsibilities and contributions to security are similarly under review.
A Secret Service sniper ultimately neutralized Crooks within seconds of his firing. Witnesses report that Crooks' presence on the roof was noticed by some attendees, who struggled to get a timely reaction from security. The shooter may have been misidentified as an authorized sniper, delaying the response.
Former FBI officials have expressed dismay at the evident breakdowns in communication. An effective security plan involves all team members meeting to discuss their roles. These individuals need to recognize each other on sight to avoid fatal delays.
Role-specific checks should be rigorously conducted at each rally stage, ensuring every team member knows their counterpart's identity and responsibilities. Basic measures like double-checks may have been neglected, contributing to the security breach.
The FBI's investigation will reconstruct the event with witness testimonies, CCTV, media recordings, and bystander footage. They will delve into how Crooks accessed the rooftop, security's reaction vector, and the relevance of the crowd's ignored alerts.
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, Trump was efficiently shielded by reinforced barriers and the swift action of Secret Service agents. Despite the ongoing threat possibility, Trump demonstrated defiance, outwardly addressing the crowd.
Audio recordings captured Trump insisting on retrieving his shoes while being escorted to his vehicle, in stark contravention to standard safety protocols. A former FBI agent noted, "The protection squad has one job: to protect their man." Priority should never be diverted to non-essential matters amid an active threat scenario.
In response to the Butler incident, the Republican National Convention scheduled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, will implement unprecedented security measures. This is a direct consequence of recent security oversights.
Frank Figliuzzi, an FBI veteran, suggests communication failures between the Secret Service and local law enforcement may have contributed to the security lapse. The shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, managed to position himself on a roof 150 yards from the stage, and despite attendees' attempts to alert security, his presence went unaddressed for several minutes. Ultimately, a Secret Service sniper neutralized Crooks. The FBI is investigating the incident to understand the communication breakdowns and to ensure such security oversights are not repeated in the future.
Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle is under intense scrutiny following an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
Critics are demanding Cheatle’s resignation, questioning her background and competence after the deadly at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, as Breitbart reports.
Cheatle, who has led the U.S. Secret Service since September 2022, faces mounting pressure to step down. On Saturday, an apparent sniper targeted Donald Trump during a rally, raising concerns over potential lapses in his security detail.
Before leading the Secret Service, Cheatle spent time as a senior director of Global Security at PepsiCo. Nevertheless, she has had a notable 27-year career with the Secret Service, including a role as an assistant director overseeing protective operations.
A witness recounted observing a man "bear-crawling" on a nearby roof just before the gunshots. Another witness expressed bewilderment at why Trump remained on stage while the shooter was in proximity. Subsequently, five gunshots were heard, causing agents to quickly surround Trump.
The former president later confirmed he had been struck by a bullet that pierced the upper part of his right ear. The quick responses of nearby agents were noted, yet questions lingered about how the shooter managed to get within such close range. The incident provoked sharp criticism of Cheatle, spotlighting her corporate security background. Critics argued that her prior experience at PepsiCo might not have adequately prepared her for the rigors of this role.
Rep. James Comer, chair of the House Oversight Committee, publicly extended his prayers to Trump and those affected by the attempt. Comer has also called for Cheatle to testify before Congress to address pressing concerns about the agency's readiness and the specific failures that occurred. Elon Musk highlighted these concerns, sarcastically noting Cheatle guarded snacks before being tasked with protecting a president. Such remarks are part of a growing chorus questioning her overall suitability for the position.
Meanwhile, security expert Blake Hall labeled the security lapses as glaring. The proximity of the shooter to Trump, which Hall described as an “easy shot,” prompted calls for immediate reevaluation of security protocols.
New York City Council Member Vickie Paladino offered a scathing critique focused on Cheatle's professional background. Paladino commented on the incongruity of appointing a corporate security expert over individuals with extensive military or traditional security experience, emphasizing the serious consequences of such appointments.
In a detailed statement, Paladino stressed the importance of appointing highly qualified individuals to critical roles, especially regarding national security. The assassination attempt has, according to Paladino, demonstrated the risks of diverging from this principle.
The revelation of such security gaps has sparked widespread debate over the standards and qualifications required for top-tier protective roles. Observers urge a thorough examination into the systemic weaknesses this attack may have exposed. While the full details of the incident are still emerging, Cheatle’s tenure as director of the Secret Service is now under an intense spotlight. Calls for hearings and reviews are expected to intensify in the coming days.
To recap, Kimberly Cheatle, director of the U.S. Secret Service, is under fire after Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt during a rally. The episode brought attention to potential security shortcomings and questioned Cheatle’s qualifications based on her former corporate security role at PepsiCo.
The story is still developing, with Cheatle expected to face Congressional scrutiny soon. The incident has ignited a conversation on the qualifications needed to lead protective services at the highest level.
Former first lady Melania Trump plans to attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee next week, according to sources.
Mrs. Trump's appearance will be a rare public event during her husband's current presidential campaign, as the Associated Press reports.
The announcement came from two individuals familiar with her plans who chose to remain anonymous. This attendance marks Melania Trump’s sparse presence in the limelight since former President Donald Trump launched his 2024 bid for the presidency.
Details about her role at the convention remain unclear, with no confirmation if she will deliver a speech or hold any formal title. The news, first reported by CNN, has garnered widespread attention given her limited presence in the political arena lately.
Her absenteeism from key events, such as the Iowa campaign kickoff and Donald Trump's Super Tuesday victory party, has been notable. This upcoming convention will thus be a significant change in her visibility within the campaign.
Melania Trump also garnered attention for not accompanying Donald Trump during his hush money trial in New York, which lasted over a month. This further underscores her rare political engagements.
It's significant that Melania Trump has stayed out of the public eye at such critical junctures of her husband’s campaign. The Republican National Convention may therefore serve as a pivotal moment for her short-term reappearance.
The lack of remarks on her potential speech or formal participation adds to the suspense. Speculations abound, but her exact plans will only be confirmed as the convention unfolds.
Some political analysts believe this appearance is part of a strategy to humanize and soften Donald Trump's image. Whether or not she speaks, her presence alone is assumed to attract considerable media coverage.
Her conspicuous absence from Donald Trump’s presidential bid thus far could be seen through different lenses. Some supporters admire her preference for privacy, while critics find her detachment unusual.
Melania Trump’s introduction at the Milwaukee convention will be under scrutinizing eyes. Analysts predict her involvement, or lack thereof, could significantly impact public perception.
Regardless, the event is expected to be a pragmatic mix of political strategy and media spectacle. Whether Melania Trump becomes a vocal participant or maintains her enigmatic presence, this appearance is undoubtedly momentous.
In conclusion, former first lady Melania Trump will attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee next week, marking a rare public appearance amid her husband's campaign. Provided by anonymous sources, it's still unclear whether she will make a speech or assume a formal role. Her absence in past campaign milestones, including Donald Trump's Super Tuesday victory party and his New York trial, contrasts sharply with her anticipated participation in Milwaukee.
As reported by Times of India, Marla Maples, ex-wife of former US President Donald Trump, has expressed her willingness to support and potentially serve as his running mate in his 2024 presidential campaign.
Maples, who recently marked her 60th birthday, shared her readiness to assist Trump in his pursuit of a second term in an interview with The Evening Standard. This was her first media engagement in nearly a decade. She asserted that the entire Trump family is united in support of his bid for the presidency.
The former First Lady expressed her belief in Trump's innocence amid his ongoing legal battles, which include a lawsuit by Jean E. Carroll and the Manhattan hush money trial. She criticized the media's focus on Trump's scandals, stressing the need to prioritize critical national concerns such as public safety.
"I'm ready. I am available if needed and I'm not sitting back anymore," Maples declared. Her commitment to playing an active role in Trump's campaign is clear, with sources hinting that she may be considered for the vice presidential position.
Trump's announcement regarding his choice of vice presidential candidate is anticipated in the coming week. As the former president navigates the legal system, Maples stands firmly by his side, ready to support him in any capacity necessary.
Maples and Trump began their relationship at a 1985 charity event and later married in 1993. Despite separating in May 1997 and finalizing their divorce in 1999, Maples has maintained a forgiving stance towards Trump, focusing on their shared history and mutual respect.
"I do know my daughter's father well enough to know that he's never had to push himself on another person. He's always had women throw themselves on him instead," Maples said, defending Trump against allegations. She remains convinced that he has committed no crime, stating, "I don't believe there was a crime done."
Maples previously advised Trump against a presidential run in the 1990s, but by 2022, the two appeared amicable at their daughter Tiffany Trump's wedding. This signifies a continued underlying connection despite past marital challenges.
Reflecting on her potential role in the upcoming campaign, Maples remarked, "Someone would have to ask my ex-husband about that." She expressed her openness to serve in whatever capacity might be needed, saying, "I'm open. I'm open to whatever way that I can serve. Right now everyone [in the Trump family] is just seeing how we can help."
The Trump family appears unified in their dedication to supporting Donald Trump's 2024 run. Marla Maples' candid remarks underscore her unwavering belief in his political beliefs and her desire to contribute meaningfully to his campaign.
The looming question of who Trump will select as his running mate has prompted much speculation. Maples' openness to the role adds an interesting dynamic to the unfolding political scene. As the announcement draws nearer, the Trump camp remains tight-lipped about the final decision.
In conclusion, Marla Maples has stepped forward to support Donald Trump's 2024 presidential campaign, potentially offering to serve as his vice-presidential running mate. Despite Trump's legal entanglements, Maples focuses on broader national issues, criticizes the media's emphasis on scandals, and highlights the Trump family's solidarity.
As Maples asserts, she is "ready" and "available" to assist in any required capacity, emphasizing her belief in Trump's innocence and the importance of moving past the legal distractions to address the country's pressing challenges.