Recently released body cam footage provides a tense view of the apprehension of Ryan Wesley Routh, who is charged with attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump. The video showcases the critical moments deputies from Martin County Sheriff’s Office captured Routh following a high-speed pursuit on a Florida highway.
The sequence of events began on Sunday when Secret Service agents noticed the tip of an AK-style rifle emerging from underbrush, positioned roughly 400 yards from Trump’s golfing location. One of the agents shot into the bushes, which caused Routh to abandon his weapon and escape in an SUV. Despite the gun not being discharged, the rapid response from authorities led to Routh’s location being swiftly determined.
The body cam footage presents Routh walking backwards, his shirt raised above his head to show he was unarmed. He remains composed as several deputies, with their rifles ready, encircle him. The man surrenders smoothly, and the deputies handcuff him, securing him into custody.
Sheriff William Snyder of Martin County commented on Routh’s composed behavior during the arrest, noting his emotionless facial expressions and overall calmness. Snyder mentioned that Routh did not inquire about the reasons for his arrest or the chase, suggesting to the sheriff that they had caught the right individual.
In the ensuing search of the area where Routh had initially fled, authorities discovered two bags. One was a backpack filled with food and a digital camera, and the other contained a loaded “SKS-style” rifle equipped with a scope, which had its serial number intentionally removed and made untraceable.
Routh is now detained and facing charges including illegal firearm possession by a convicted felon and possessing a firearm with a tampered serial number. It is anticipated that further charges will be added as the investigation progresses.
Thanks to the prompt and effective actions of the law enforcement officers, the situation was resolved without further complications. Routh is scheduled for a court hearing on September 30, where he will be arraigned.
