Gunshots reportedly fired at Donald Trump rally – as former president rushed off stage

Donald Trump was giving a speech in Pennsylvania when he appeared to fall to the ground – at which point he was surrounded by armed security staff

Two people have reportedly died after gunshots were fired at a Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania – with the injured former president rushed off stage by armed security.

Butler County District attorney told the Associated Press (AP) that a shooter was dead and that a rally attendee had also been killed.

Trump was giving a speech at the rally when, suddenly, he appeared to fall to the ground clutching his ear.

He was quickly surrounded by armed security and stayed down for around a minute.

He then rose to his feet, pumped his fist in the air, and shouted “fight”, before being escorted off stage and into a vehicle.

Then he was driven away from the scene. Video appeared to show blood coming from his ear as he was taken away.

The US Secret Service said Trump was now “safe” and that it had implemented protective measures around the former president.

It also said that an investigation had been launched – but did not give any further details.

“This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available,” Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said in a post on X.

Trump’s campaign said he was “fine” following the incident.

“President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act,” spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement.

“He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.”

The White House said President Joe Biden had received an “initial briefing” on the incident.

Mr Biden is currently at his home in Delaware with some of his family.

Republican senator for Ohio, J.D. Vance, said in a post on the X social media platform: “Everyone join me in praying for our President Trump and everyone at that rally. I hope everyone is ok.”

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said: “My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

“I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.”

Sources: sky news