Florida law enforcement is launching its own investigation into an apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, running parallel to a federal probe. Governor Ron DeSantis announced Tuesday that state prosecutors will pursue the most severe charges possible, including attempted murder, against Ryan Wesley Routh, who has already been charged at the federal level with firearms offenses. DeSantis emphasized that Florida is determined to hold the suspect accountable.
While Routh is currently facing gun-related charges, more serious federal charges may follow as the investigation develops. State and federal law enforcement often conduct simultaneous investigations, as different jurisdictions may bring separate charges based on the available legal frameworks.
The FBI has been conducting extensive interviews and collecting evidence related to the case, with agents seen at Routh’s home in Hawaii. So far, no motive has been publicly disclosed. Routh, 58, allegedly waited near a Florida golf course where Trump was playing, armed with a rifle, before being apprehended by Secret Service agents. Although he did not fire any shots or have Trump in his line of sight, he fled the scene, leaving behind a rifle, food, and other items.
This follows a previous assassination attempt on Trump in July, raising alarms about growing violence in U.S. presidential politics. Vice President Kamala Harris reached out to Trump to express relief at his safety.
Routh has a history of felony convictions, and federal investigators are scrutinizing his online activity, which reveals evolving political views and recent hostility towards Trump. His writings also express frustration over global events, particularly related to China and Ukraine. Additional hearings in the federal case are scheduled for later this month.