Donald Trump Rushed Off Stage Bleeding, One Reported Dead at Campaign Rally

Donald Trump Rushed Off Stage Bleeding, One Reported Dead at Campaign Rally https://ift.tt/2uFhnQJ

The former president was seen with blood running down the side of his face after loud noises were heard at his rally on Saturday, July 13

Anna Moneymaker/Getty 

Donald Trump with blood on his face on July 13 in Butler, Penn.

Donald Trump was rushed off a stage with blood on his face during an evening campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, July 13, as several loud bangs rang out in the air.

Trump, 78, was mid-speech when popping, gunshot-like sounds could be heard. Footage taken at the event and shared on social media show the former president turn toward the noise and briefly grab his ear before Secret Service agents rushed the stage and surrounded him.

Trump was then rushed off the stage as what appeared to be blood was seen running down the side of his face. Before leaving, Trump stood and raised his fist in a defiant gesture, yelling "Fight!"

In a statement given to PEOPLE, the Trump campaign said, "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. More details will follow."

The District Attorney of Butler County, PA., where the rally took place — told WTAE reporter Mike Valente that one person is "believed to be dead" as a result of the incident, but that Trump is okay.

Anna Moneymaker/Getty 

Donald Trump and Secret Service agents on July 13 in Butler, Penn.

CBS News reports that a senior government official also offered the following statement: "The former president is safe. We have implemented protective security measures. This is being investigated further."

Anna Moneymaker/Getty 

Donald Trump on July 13 in Butler, Penn.

In a statement posted to Facebook, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro wrote that he had been briefed on the situation and that police remained on the scene and are ",working with our federal and local partners."

"Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States," Shapiro said in the statement, adding: "Lori and I are praying for President Trump, the Secret Service officers who protected him, those attending the event, and all of the first responders still on the scene."

This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates. 

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