During the trial of Ryan Routh, a man accused of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump at a Florida golf course, FBI Special Agent Nicholas Schnelle testified about the strategic hiding spot chosen by the defendant. The sniper positioned near the sixth hole at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach was concealed by dense vegetation, providing a close and unobstructed view. Schnelle emphasized that the SKS rifle recovered from the scene had a range of 350 meters, making it feasible for a skilled shooter to hit a human-sized target on the green. Routh, who maintains his innocence, faces charges including attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate and firearm violations.
As the trial progresses, new details emerge about Routh’s alleged activities leading up to the incident. A detective from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office testified that a man resembling Routh was seen observing Trump’s plane at Palm Beach International Airport a week before the planned assassination. Routh, representing himself in court, questioned the legality of taking photos of airplanes at the airport during the cross-examination. Additionally, a Secret Service agent recounted the moment when Routh aimed his rifle at him before fleeing upon being fired at, leading to his subsequent arrest with the help of a witness who saw him leaving the scene.
With the trial moving swiftly, prosecutors anticipate wrapping up their case soon, after which Routh is expected to present his defense. Amidst the testimonies and evidence presented, the intricate details of the alleged assassination attempt are coming to light, shedding light on the gravity of the accusations against Routh.