New footage of the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump has revealed a last-millisecond movement that may have saved his life. During a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, Trump was speaking when gunshots rang out, causing him to duck. He later confirmed on social media that he was grazed by a bullet in the upper part of his right ear and attributed his survival to divine intervention.
However, slowed-down footage shows that a slight head tilt Trump made while referencing immigration statistics on a big screen might have been crucial. Trump reportedly told former White House doctor Ronny Jackson that the chart he was pointing to saved his life. A rally attendee, Vanessa, also supported this, noting that his movement coincided with the bullet’s trajectory change, preventing a more fatal outcome.
REPORT: Donald Trump says a last millisecond head tilt likely saved his life as slowed-down footage shows the bullet grazing his ear.
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 14, 2024
If Trump hadn't moved his head, the bullet would likely have hit the rear of his head, ending his life.
Trump says he turned his head to look at… pic.twitter.com/uXIEjHIcRA
The Secret Service confirmed that the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was neutralized by authorities after the attack, which left one man dead and two others critically injured. Trump, who appeared with blood on his ear and face, was swiftly escorted off stage and later declared himself ‘fine’. Speaking to the New York Post, he remarked that the doctor at the hospital called his survival a miracle.
This incident underscores the ever-present security threats at high-profile political events and highlights the split-second decisions that can make a difference between life and death. The footage and witness accounts provide a detailed look at how a seemingly minor movement can have significant consequences in such critical situations.
