The FBI recently disclosed an attempt on former President Donald Trump’s life, naming 58-year-old Ryan Routh as the suspect involved in the plot.
A tip received by the FBI in 2019 about Ryan Routh preceded his recent arrest related to an assassination attempt against former President Trump, Fox News reported.
Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri detailed the progression of the investigation at a press conference Monday afternoon.After the 2019 tip, local law enforcement in Honolulu received an alert following an inconclusive interview with the original complainant.
Ryan Routh was taken into custody by the Martin County Sheriff's Office before being transferred to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office. When the FBI attempted to question him, Routh opted to invoke his right to legal counsel.
The FBI has since collected various items from Routh's prior residences through executed search warrants. Included in the seizures were a video recording device, cell phones, a vehicle, and other digital devices.
Following up on the investigation, Jeffrey B. Veltri stated:
“We’re continuing to conduct analysis, and we’ll be compiling the subjects' movements in the days and months leading up to September 15th,” said Veltri.
The FBI's Evidence Response Team is examining the removed items, which include an SKS rifle equipped with a scope, miscellaneous electronic devices, and ceramic tiles.
Routh’s prior interactions with the law include a conviction in 2002 in North Carolina for possessing a weapon of mass destruction. From 1997 to 2010, he also faced various felony charges linked to stolen goods.
In addition to physical evidence, agents are reviewing Routh’s extensive online activity. This digital footprint is aiding the FBI as they piece together Routh's movements and potential motives leading up to the recent incident.
Jeffrey B. Veltri further noted during the investigation update that, “The FBI does not have information indicating that Routh acted with anyone else,” signaling that Routh may have acted alone in the assassination attempt.
The involvement of multiple FBI field offices illustrates the complexity and broad scope of this case. Interviews are ongoing with individuals who knew Routh, including family members and past colleagues in both the Honolulu and Charlotte field offices.
Analysis of the gathered evidence and Routh's digital history continues, as authorities aim to uncover more details about the complexity of his intentions and the breadth of his preparations for the assassination attempt.
In conclusion, the FBI's ongoing investigation into Ryan Routh builds off a history of past criminal behavior and an FBI tip from 2019 that initially flagged him as a potential threat. Routh's arrest followed a guarded vigilance and swift legal actions, with further inquiries into his activities to understand the full extent of the thwarted assassination plan. The situation remains dynamic as new details are expected to emerge.
