Trump Assassination Attempt: Ryan Routh Found Guilty After Florida Golf Club Plot

A Florida jury has found Ryan Routh guilty of attempting to assassinate US President Donald Trump during a golf outing in 2024. The verdict came after a dramatic trial in Fort Pierce, where Routh tried to stab himself in court after hearing the decision.

The 59-year-old was discovered with a rifle near Trump’s West Palm Beach golf club. Prosecutors said he planned the attack for weeks, hiding in bushes overlooking the course. A Secret Service agent spotted him and opened fire before Routh could act.

Key Details of the Trump Assassination Attempt

Routh faced five charges, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, weapons offenses, and obstructing a federal agent. He now faces a possible life sentence. US Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed the guilty verdict, calling the case “an affront to the nation.”

Witnesses testified that Routh tracked Trump’s movements for a month, using six mobile phones and fake identities. On September 15, 2024, he waited nearly 10 hours near the sixth hole green while Trump played nearby. He fled after being discovered and was arrested later that day along a Florida highway.

According to prosecutors, the Secret Service agent’s quick action saved Trump’s life. “This plot was carefully crafted and deadly serious,” said prosecutor John Shipley. He told jurors that without intervention, Trump would not be alive today. Reports from Reuters and the Associated Press confirm the details.

Broader Impact and Reactions

The verdict comes amid rising concerns about political violence in the United States. Trump was targeted in two assassination attempts during his 2024 campaign, including one incident where he was wounded in the ear. The trial also unfolded against the backdrop of activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination, which intensified the debate on political extremism.

Trump responded on Truth Social, calling Routh “an evil man with an evil intention.” Bondi stressed the Justice Department’s commitment to punishing political violence. Observers say the case highlights the growing risks facing US political figures and the challenges of preventing future attacks.

The guilty verdict closes one of the most high-profile political violence cases in recent US history. The Trump assassination attempt shows the level of threat leaders face, and the trial has reinforced the importance of constant security vigilance.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened in the Trump assassination attempt?

Ryan Routh was found with a rifle near Trump’s golf course in Florida. He was stopped before he could fire.

Q2: Who is Ryan Routh?

Routh is a 59-year-old man accused of plotting to assassinate Trump. He lived at a truck stop and used fake names.

Q3: Was Trump hurt in the Florida golf club incident?

No. Secret Service agents spotted Routh in time. Trump was on a nearby hole when Routh was caught.

Q4: What sentence does Ryan Routh face?

He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison after being found guilty on all charges.

Q5: Why is the case important?

It highlights the danger of political violence in the US and the security risks faced by leaders.

References

Reuters. (2025). Trump assassination attempt trial coverage.

Associated Press. (2025). Florida jury finds Ryan Routh guilty.

BBC News. (2025). Trump assassination attempt verdict explained.