The Trump attempted assassination trial in Fort Pierce has entered a new phase as the defense prepares to present its case. Ryan Routh, accused of trying to kill Donald Trump outside Trump International Golf Club near West Palm Beach in September 2024, is representing himself in federal court.
Trump Attempted Assassination Trial Overview
According to official sources, Ryan Routh faces multiple federal charges related to the alleged assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. The trial, held in Fort Pierce, Florida, began with opening statements on September 11, 2025, and is expected to last two to three weeks.
Routh is charged with:
- Attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate
- Possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
- Assaulting a federal officer
- Felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition
- Possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number
According to the U.S. Secret Service and Federal Bureau of Investigation, Routh allegedly pointed a firearm into the golf course while Trump was playing a round on September 15, 2024. Authorities later seized multiple firearms and ammunition in connection with the case, as detailed in the report on guns and ammo seized in Fort Pierce after presidential threats.
Key Evidence Presented by Prosecutors
Prosecutors focused on digital and physical evidence tying Routh to the scene. A Secret Service agent testified that Routh was found with an SKS semiautomatic rifle, hiding in bushes near the sixth hole of the golf club, according to court testimony.
According to an FBI agent, investigators recovered a photo from one of Routh’s six phones. The photo, dated September 8, 2024, showed a rifle tied to a tree. The agent stated that a tree matching the photo was located near the 14th hole, though the rifle was not present when agents arrived.
Additional evidence included a SunnyD bottle found near the tree, which matched a purchase receipt found in Routh’s vehicle, according to the FBI. The vehicle belonged to Routh’s daughter, Sara Routh, who also shared a bank account with him and sent him money. Officials reported that Sara Routh is not facing any charges and has stated she was unaware of her father’s activities. For a concise overview, see 3 key facts on the Fort Pierce man’s presidential threat case.
Defense Prepares to Call Witnesses
Routh, who is acting as his own attorney, is expected to begin his defense on Monday. Court documents indicate he will call approximately three witnesses. The defense strategy and witness list have not been fully disclosed, and details may be updated as the trial continues.
According to official sources, Routh chose to forgo an opening statement and has not pursued an insanity defense, as confirmed by court records and statements from his attorneys.
Background on Ryan Routh
Routh is a former construction worker from North Carolina who had recently relocated to Hawaii. Witnesses have described him as a self-styled mercenary leader, known for discussing plans to participate in conflicts overseas. According to reports, Routh attempted to recruit individuals from Afghanistan, Moldova, and Taiwan during the early days of the war in Ukraine.
Routh’s criminal history includes a 2002 arrest in Greensboro, North Carolina, for eluding a traffic stop and barricading himself from police. According to police records, he was found with a fully automatic machine gun and an explosive device, described as a “weapon of mass destruction.” The device was later identified as an explosive with a 10-inch fuse.
Trial Proceedings in Fort Pierce
The trial is taking place in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida in Fort Pierce. Lead prosecutor John Shipley delivered opening statements, outlining the government’s case against Routh. WPTV and other news outlets have reported daily from the courtroom, providing updates on witness testimony and evidence presented.
According to a preliminary report from the FBI, the investigation included searches of Sara Routh’s home and cellphone. She told WPTV that she was unaware of her father’s alleged activities and has not been charged in connection with the case.
The trial has featured testimony from law enforcement, digital forensic experts, and witnesses who placed Routh in Palm Beach County days before the alleged attempt. Officials have also described the discovery of a “sniper’s nest” and other military-style tactics allegedly used by Routh. Notably, authorities seized two guns in Fort Pierce after threats were made to President Trump, as detailed in this Fort Pierce gun seizure case.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Process
Officials emphasize that the investigation remains ongoing and details may be updated as new evidence is presented. All information is based on official court records and agency reports. The trial is expected to conclude within two to three weeks, but the timeline may change depending on the defense’s case.
For more information, refer to official updates from the U.S. Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trump Attempted Assassination Trial
What is the Trump attempted assassination trial in Fort Pierce about?
The trial involves Ryan Routh, who is accused of trying to assassinate Donald Trump outside Trump International Golf Club in September 2024. The case is being heard in federal court in Fort Pierce, Florida.
How long is the Trump attempted assassination trial expected to last?
The trial is expected to run for two to three weeks, according to court officials. This timeline may change as the defense presents its case.
Are there any charges against Ryan Routh’s daughter?
No, Sara Routh is not facing any charges related to this case. She has stated that she was unaware of her father’s actions and has cooperated with investigators.
Can you follow daily updates on the Trump attempted assassination trial?
Yes, local news outlets such as WPTV provide daily coverage and updates from the courtroom. Official information is also available from federal agencies involved in the case.
Where are the court proceedings for the Trump attempted assassination trial being held?
The trial is taking place in the U.S. District Court in Fort Pierce, Florida. All hearings and testimony are part of the federal legal process in this location.
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