Fast-Moving Developments and Stunning New Footage
Gunman Climbs to Rooftop Minutes Before Opening Fire
In a dramatic turn of events, new footage has emerged showing the moments leading up to the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. The alleged gunman can be seen climbing to the roof of a building just minutes before opening fire at a rally. Remarkable new images capture the scene as bystanders in the crowd urgently point out the gunman to an officer. This shocking footage is now a critical part of the ongoing investigation.
Law Enforcement’s Staging Area Compromised
ABC News has uncovered that law enforcement was using the same building as a staging area. Despite the heavy presence of armed local police inside, the gunman managed to climb the building’s exterior to reach the roof. According to Butler Township officials, a local police officer confronted the shooter on the roof moments before the shooting. The officer, who climbed up to the roof edge to get a better view, was forced to make a defensive move when the gunman pointed a rifle at him, causing the officer to lose his grip and fall.
Security Failures Under Scrutiny
Investigation into Roof Access
Investigators are now probing whether the roof access had been properly secured. The shooter appeared to have climbed with ease, gaining an unimpeded route to the roof, just 400 feet from the stage with a direct line of sight to the former president. This raises serious questions about the security measures in place and how such a breach was possible.
Lawmakers Demand Answers
Washington lawmakers are demanding swift answers and accountability. They have called on Secret Service Director Kim Cheel to appear before Congress to explain the security lapses. In an exclusive interview with ABC’s Preer Thomas, Director Cheel expressed her shock and concern over the incident.
Exclusive Interview with Secret Service Director Kim Cheel
Preer Thomas: What was your reaction when you saw the events unfold on Saturday?
Director Kim Cheel: Shock, and then concern obviously for the former president. This is an event that should have never happened.
Thomas: Who is most responsible for this happening?
Cheel: The Secret Service is responsible for the protection of the former president, so the buck stops with me. I am the director of The Secret Service. It was unacceptable and it’s something that shouldn’t happen again.
Calls for Resignation and Immediate Action
Despite some members of Congress calling for her resignation, Director Cheel affirmed her commitment to staying on and addressing the security failures immediately. She emphasized her intention to make immediate changes without waiting for an independent review.
Thomas: The president and Homeland Security secretary said today they had 100% confidence in you, but there are some members of Congress calling on you to resign.
Cheel: I appreciate the secretary’s comments and we’re going to continue to be transparent and communicate with people.
Thomas: You plan to stay on?
Cheel: Absolutely, I do plan to stay on.
Immediate Security Enhancements
Director Cheel has already taken steps to enhance security, expanding Tactical or SWAT support for former President Trump. The urgency and scope of these changes underscore the seriousness with which the Secret Service is treating this breach.
The Path Forward
This incident has sparked a renewed focus on the security protocols for protecting high-profile individuals. As investigations continue and immediate changes are implemented, the nation watches closely to ensure such a breach does not happen again.