Former President Donald Trump was rushed off the stage at his Pennsylvania rally on Saturday, July 13, after loud bangs were heard.
It's unclear what happened, but many have likened the sounds to gunshots and the former president appeared to have blood running down his face as he was escorted away by Secret Service.
Trump, 78, was mid-speech when the incident occurred. Footage taken at the event andshared on social mediashow the former president turn toward the noise and briefly grab his ear before Secret Service agents rushed the stage and surrounded him.
Keep reading for updates as PEOPLE covers the situation live.
Secret Service Spokesperson Says ‘the Former President Is Safe’
Anthony Guglielmi, chief of communications for the United States Secret Service, wrote in a post on X, “An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe."
Guglielmi added in his statement that "this is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.”
President Joe Biden Is Aware of the Situation Involving Donald Trump
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation involving former President Donald Trump, according to NBC News. A senior White House official tol -
d the outlet that the president is in Delaware for the weekend.
Biden's campaign is monitoring the situation as well, NBC News reported.
P.A. Governor Condemns Violence After Shooting at Trump Rally
The Governor of Pennsylvania addressed the incident at the Trump rally in a statement on social media shortly after, strongly condemning violence.
"Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable," said Josh Shapiro. "It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States."
Added Shapiro, a Democrat, "I have been briefed on the situation. PA State Police are on the scene in Butler County and working with our federal and local partners."
"Lori and I are praying for President Trump, the Secret Service officers who him, those attending the event, and all of the first responders still on the scene."
President Trump Is 'Fine and Being Checked Out,' a Spokesperson Says
After the incident at the Butler rally, Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for former President Trump, said that he is okay.
"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," said Cheung. "More details will follow."
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