The shooting was an assassination attempt against Trump, according to the FBI

Former President Donald Trump was the target of an assassination attempt Saturday at a Pennsylvania rally, just days before he was scheduled to accept the Republican nomination for the third time. A volley of gunfire sparked panic, and a bleeding Trump, who claimed to have been hit in the ear, was encircled by Secret Service agents and rushed to his SUV, pumping his fist in defiance.

According to authorities, one attendee died and two onlookers suffered serious injuries. Everybody was recognized as male. The suspect, who allegedly opened fire from a high position outside the rally site, a farm show in Butler, Pennsylvania, was shot and killed by the Secret Service, which also declared that Trump was safe.

At a press conference held late on Saturday night, FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent Kevin Rojek stated that the agency was "not prepared at this time to provide the identity of the potential shooter." We'll formally reveal the identity to the media as soon as we obtain confirmation."

While stating that officials are looking into the shooting as a potential "assassination," Rojek declined to offer any speculation as to why it may have happened. The Secret Service, as well as state and local agencies, are assisting the FBI in spearheading the probe.

Saturday evening, the agency issued a second statement with further information:

"During Former President Trump's campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on the evening of July 13 at approximately 6:15 p.m., a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. U.S. Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and Former President Trump is safe. One spectator was killed, and two spectators were critically injured. This incident is currently under investigation. and the Secret Service has notified the FBI."

The Trump campaign said in a 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." He was released from the hospital later Saturday night.