Trump’s Life Saved by Quick Reflexes at Pennsylvania Rally
3 min readA split-second move saved Donald Trump’s life during an assassination attempt at his Pennsylvania rally on Saturday, July 13. As shots rang out, Trump turned his head slightly to look at a jumbotron, ensuring his survival.
The Incident
Senior adviser Dan Scavino Jr. highlighted the moment in an X post, expressing gratitude that the rally allowed President Trump to use the jumbotron. As a result, this caused him to slightly move his head when shots were fired. He is grateful for the prayers, love, and support as he prepares for the GOP Convention in Wisconsin!”
The critical adjustment came when 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire, aiming at Trump’s head. Miraculously, the bullet grazed Trump’s ear instead of hitting his skull, thereby narrowly averting a fatal outcome. This turn of events highlights Trump’s quick reflexes and the unexpected twist in the situation. Fortunately, Trump’s quick reflexes and the unexpected turn of events spared his life.
According to Aaron Cohen, speaking to Fox News, snipers typically target the cerebral cortex of the cerebellum, located at the top of the brain stem. This shot incapacitates the target, preventing them from moving their hands. The distance of the shot—130 yards—is comparable to a putt in golf. With the right optics, anyone can hit a target from this distance; it’s not a difficult shot to make.
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Survival by a Split Second
Cohen added, “Turning his head this way when the shot came in saved his life. If Trump had kept his head straight, it would have been lights out.”
Security Concerns and Criticisms
Former FBI Special Agent Jonathan Gilliam criticized the Secret Service’s response, suggesting it could have further endangered Trump. Speaking on Fox & Friends First, Gilliam expressed disbelief at the delay in moving Trump off the stage and into the car, emphasizing the critical lapse in protection.
Gilliam noted that while news commentators hesitated to criticize the Secret Service, he found the events astounding upon review. Nevertheless, he observed that Trump’s defense and movements seemed improvised, thereby falling short of the precise standards expected from elite security services. This improvisation in Trump’s defense and movements did not meet the anticipated standards of this elite service.
Calls for Improved Protocols
Former FBI Director Chris Swecker described the assassination attempt as “almost a kill shot.” He stated that if there had been a second shooter, they could have had plenty of opportunity to take him out again.This breaks every rule of Secret Service protocol and executive protection. The security at the rally was a breakdown from start to finish.”
Swecker emphasized, “The primary mission of the Secret Service is to prevent such actions and react swiftly to get the president out of danger. Neither of these happened here, so although I don’t want to pass harsh judgments, it clearly indicates a security breakdown.
Retired Secret Service Agent Jeff James suggested a different approach, saying, “Once they got to Trump, they should have immediately escorted him off the stage. He wanted to wait for his shoes. That’s great, but, ‘No, we’re going.’”
James added, “If I had one criticism, it would be that I would have liked to see him off the stage and into the armored vehicles more quickly. Once in those vehicles, you’re locked down, safe, and can move quickly if needed.”
Conclusion
Donald Trump’s quick reflexes and a fortunate turn of his head saved his life during this harrowing incident. The event has sparked significant discussion about the effectiveness of presidential security measures and the need for improved protocols to ensure the safety of high-profile individuals in such situations.
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