Trump assassination bid: Melania calls shooter ‘a monster’ in first reaction

In her first statement after the assassination bid on Donald Trump, his wife Melania Trump thanked the swift action of the Secret Service agents in saving his life and termed the suspect as a “monster”. 

“When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barron’s life were on the brink of devastating change. I am grateful to the brave secret service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives to protect my husband,” said Melania. 

“A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donald’s passion – his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration. The core facets of my husband’s life – his human side – were buried below the political machine,” she added. 

Melania also reached out to the families of the innocent victims. “To the families of the innocent victims who are now suffering from this heinous act, I humbly offer my sincerest sympathy,” she said.

“We are all humans, and fundamentally, instinctively, we want to help one another. American politics is only one vehicle that can uplift our communities. Love, compassion, kindness and empathy are necessities,” said Melania. 

Reacting to the assassination bid on her father, Ivanka Trump said her mother was watching over him last night. “I believe she was watching over dad last night during the attempt on his life. I miss her every day and pray for the safety of the family and friends she left behind," she said.

Meanwhile, the officials are investigating the motive behind the shooting. The suspect was identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthews Crooks of Bethel Park. Police are investigating his residence and questioning the family to find out possible links. 

Reportedly bomb-making materials were found in the suspect's home. According to the Wall Street Journal, the suspected shooter had explosive devices in his car as well.