Several U.S. Secret Service agents, including the head of the Pittsburgh office, have been placed on leave following an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump last month, according to reports from Fox and CBS.
The incident occurred on July 13 at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where concerns have been raised about how the suspect was able to access a rooftop with a clear view of Trump’s speaking area.
The Secret Service has expressed shame over the security lapse, and its chief resigned in the wake of the attempt. While Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi did not confirm the leave status, he stated that the agency is reviewing the operational failure and any policy violations will be investigated.
The attack resulted in Trump being shot in the ear, one attendee killed, and two others injured. The suspected shooter, Thomas Crooks, was killed by a Secret Service agent. The FBI has not yet determined a motive for the attack.
Following the shooting, the Secret Service advised Trump to avoid large outdoor events, though Trump has indicated he will continue such rallies with enhanced security measures.
