As Trump was being taken off the stage, surrounded by security agents, blood was seen around his right ear.

The Secret Service said in a statement that “the former President is safe”.

“The Secret Service has implemented protective measures, and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation, and further information will be released when it is available,” Secret Service communications chief Anthony Guglielmi said on X.

Also read: Donald Trump braves ‘assassination attempt’; shooter, supporter dead | 10 points

Trump’s campaign also said in a statement that he was “fine”.

“President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act,” Trump’s campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a statement. “He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.”

According to the Associated Press, Trump was showing a chart of border crossing numbers during his rally in Butler city when loud bangs were heard from the crowd. He was seen reaching with his right hand toward his neck as blood appeared on his face.

He quickly ducked behind the riser as agents from his protective detail rushed the stage, and screams were heard in the crowd of several thousand people. The bangs continued as agents tended to him on stage. His motorcade has since left the venue.

The White House said President Joe Biden has been briefed on the incident.

Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr, posted a photo on X of Trump, his fist raised and his face bloody in front of an American flag, saying: “He’ll never stop fighting to Save America.”

Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla, also shared a video of the incident on X, saying: “I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery.”