(NewsNation) — Former President Donald Trump is said to be “fine” and being examined at a Butler, Pa. hospital after he was was rushed off stage at a rally after several loud noises were heard. Blood could be seen on Trump’s head near his right ear, but he remained upright as agents moved him to a nearby SUV.
In a statement released on its X account, the U.S. Secret Service said: “An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.”
Trump communications director Steven Cheung also issued a short statement: “President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility.”
Moments before the noise that’s not been identified, Trump was blasting President Joe Biden over the U.S. economy, referring to a chart mounted behind him.
“That chart’s a couple of months old, and if you want to really see that said… take a look at what happened…”
He stopped, put his right hand to his right ear, then ducked down on his own power as people around him yelled “get down, get down.” As people seated behind Trump ducked and screamed, TV microphones picked up the sound of rapid sounds.
As the sounds paused, Secret Service agents rushed to Trump. A single sound rang out, followed by the scream of a woman. As agents tended to Trump, the people seated behind him peered forward, shock and concern on their faces.
At least five agents raised up Trump, and surrounded him. From the wall of dark-suited agents, Trump raised a fist into the air. But the camera could also see blood coming from the right side of his head near his ear.
As the crowd began to chant “USA,” agents took Trump down the steps. Trump was being held up by agents as they rushed him to a nearby Secret Service SUV.
A White House official says President Joe Biden has received an initial briefing on the incident. Biden has been spending the weekend at his home in Rehoboth, Del.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates
