Ryan Routh: 10 things to know about man behind Trump’s foiled assassination plot

In September 2024, Ryan Routh shocked the nation when he attempted to assassinate then-former President Donald Trump from a sniper’s perch near his West Palm Beach golf course. Thwarted by a vigilant Secret Service agent, Routh’s plot ended before it could reach fruition, but the case captured widespread attention for its audacity, the detailed planning involved, and the courtroom drama that followed. Convicted on multiple federal charges and sentenced to life in prison, Routh’s story is as chilling as it is complex. Here are 10 key things to know about Ryan Routh and the events that led to his historic conviction.

1. Who Ryan Routh Is

Ryan Routh is the Florida man convicted of plotting to assassinate then‑former President Donald Trump from a sniper position near Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach. His plan was uncovered and stopped by law enforcement in late 2024, resulting in federal charges and a life prison sentence in early 2026.

2. What He Was Convicted Of

In September 2025, a federal jury found Routh guilty on five counts, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, assault on a federal officer, and multiple firearms offenses. Each count carried significant prison time, and together they added up to life in prison.

3. The Assassination Plot

According to court records and trial testimony, Routh had set up a sniper’s nest near the sixth green of Trump’s golf course on September 15, 2024 — just minutes before the former president was expected to play nearby. He armed himself with an old Soviet‑style SKS rifle and planned to shoot as Trump came into view.

4. How He Was Discovered

Routh’s plot was thwarted when a U.S. Secret Service agent conducting routine security checks spotted Routh’s partially obscured face and the rifle barrel protruding through a chain‑linked fence. The agent fired shots to defend himself and radioed in the threat, preventing the attack before it could begin.

5. The Evidence Against Him

Prosecutors presented multiple pieces of evidence at trial, including:

• A photo from his sniper position showing just 126 feet to the intended target area

  
  
  

• Burner phone searches for “Trump upcoming rallies” and local traffic cameras

• A handwritten letter in which Routh wrote that he had “gave it all the gumption I could muster,” and offered **$150,000 to whoever could finish the job” (despite no indication he had such funds)

6. The Escape and Capture

After being spotted, Routh fled the scene and was seen by a citizen — Tommy McGee — crossing the street and getting into a vehicle. McGee memorised the license plate, which helped law enforcement locate and arrest Routh later that same day. During trial, Routh told McGee, “You’re a good man. You’re my hero.”

7. Routh’s Own Behavior in Court

Routh’s trial was highly unusual because he represented himself, a decision that repeatedly drew rebukes from the judge. He filed bizarre pre‑trial court filings, insulted Trump, and made unconventional arguments — including claiming that because the assassination “never was going to happen,” it couldn’t legally be an attempt.

8. His Attempted Suicide in Court

Immediately after the jury delivered a guilty verdict, Routh tried to stab himself in the neck with a pen in the courtroom. His daughter, present in the gallery, yelled for help before deputies intervened and saved his life.

9. What He Said in His Sentencing Statement

At sentencing, Routh addressed the court while shackled, delivering bizarre and defiant remarks. “Nothing stands before you but a hollow American shell,” he said, along with references to international conflicts, before the judge cut him off. He also commented that execution “is not an option.”

10. The Sentence and Its Rationale

Judge Aileen Cannon — who was appointed by Trump during his first term — delivered a life sentence, saying Routh’s plot was deliberate and dangerous. In addition to life imprisonment, Routh received concurrent sentences totaling dozens of additional years for the associated weapons charges and assault on a federal officer. Prosecutors argued Routh showed no remorse and was prepared to kill or injure anyone who stood in his way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Was Donald Trump harmed in the plot?
No — the plot was thwarted before Trump arrived in the area.

Why did Routh want to assassinate Trump?
At trial, Routh made conflicting and seemingly ideologically driven statements, including criticizing Trump and global events, but no single coherent motive was established beyond extremist intent.

Did Routh act alone?
Yes. There was no evidence presented at trial of direct assistance from others in planning or executing the plot.

Will Routh be eligible for parole?
Given the life sentence and additional consecutive terms, eligibility for release is extremely unlikely under federal sentencing guidelines.