Ryan Wesley Routh

Ryan Wesley Routh
Routh's mug shot after his arrest
Born (1966-02-18) February 18, 1966
EducationNorth Carolina A&T State University
Known forAccused of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump in Florida
Political party
Criminal statusPre-trial detention
Spouse
Lora Frances Wilson
(m. 1989; div. 2003)
ChildrenOran Alexander Routh
Adam Routh
Sara Ellen Routh
Parent(s)Daniel Wesley Routh
Marjorie Patton Fearing
RelativesEric Daniel Routh (brother)
MotiveUnder investigation
Criminal chargeFederal:

Florida:

  • Attempted felony murder
  • Attempted first-degree murder
  • Terrorism
Details
DateSeptember 15, 2024
LocationTrump International Golf Club, West Palm Beach
WeaponSKS semiautomatic 7.62x39 caliber rifle
Imprisoned atFederal Detention Center, Miami
Signature

Ryan Wesley Routh (born February 18, 1966) is an American man who allegedly attempted to assassinate then-former U.S. president Donald Trump during his 2024 presidential campaign. Routh's motives are currently under investigation.

On September 15, 2024, a Secret Service agent shot at least four rounds at Routh, who was hiding with an SKS-style rifle in shrubbery at Trump International Golf Club, West Palm Beach. He was allegedly pointing his weapon through the fence line of the golf course, 300–500 yards (250–450 meters) away from Trump, who was moving between holes five and six alongside Republican megadonor and real estate investor Steve Witkoff. Routh fled the scene, but was later arrested as the prime suspect. An update given by the FBI on September 16 mentioned that Routh had not fired his weapon.

Routh has pleaded not guilty to five federal charges, including attempting to assassinate a presidential candidate. His trial is scheduled to begin on September 8, 2025. Routh could be sentenced to life in prison or the death penalty if convicted.