Trial Commences for Man Accused of Attempted Assassination of Former President Trump

The trial of Ryan Routh, accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, commenced in Fort Pierce, Florida. Routh, 59, is representing himself and faces multiple federal charges, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer, and firearms violations.

During opening statements, Routh began with a discourse on human history, prompting U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon to interrupt and instruct him to focus on the case. After resuming with off-topic remarks, the judge ended his opening statement.

Prosecutor John Shipley Jr. stated that Routh's alleged actions aimed to "take the choice away from the American people" during the 2024 election. The prosecution plans to present evidence including cellphone data, security footage, a handwritten note expressing intent to kill Trump, and eyewitness testimony.

The first witness, Secret Service agent Robert Fercano, testified that he discovered Routh hiding near the perimeter of Trump's West Palm Beach golf course. Fercano recounted seeing a rifle barrel protruding through the fence and, upon realizing it was aimed at him, called for backup while moving away. Jurors heard audio of Fercano radioing colleagues after discharging his weapon in Routh's direction: "Shots fired! Shots fired! Shots fired!"

Routh has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The trial is expected to last two to three weeks.