The reported third assassination attempt on Donald Trump has sparked attention after authorities arrested a man near a Trump rally in Coachella, California. While officials suggest a potential threat to the former president, the suspect denies any involvement in such a plan. The details surrounding the incident have led to widespread curiosity about what truly happened.
Here’s a closer look at what we know so far.
Was there a third assassination attempt on Donald Trump?
On October 12, 2024, authorities arrested Vem Miller, a Las Vegas man, near Donald Trump’s rally in Coachella, California, marking a third reported assassination attempt against the former president (via BBC).
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco stated that Miller had a shotgun, a loaded handgun, and fake IDs. He believed Miller was planning to kill the former president. However, Miller denied these accusations, claiming he was a Trump supporter. He said he had the firearms for personal safety and informed officers about them at a checkpoint.
Miller was stopped at a security checkpoint when officers found irregularities such as a fake license plate, a fraudulent VIP pass, and multiple fake passports. Bianco praised the security measures for thwarting what he believed to be an assassination attempt. Meanwhile, Miller, a registered Republican, maintained his innocence and stated that he had purchased the firearms legally after receiving death threats.
Federal authorities are still investigating the case. While Miller faces state charges for illegal possession of firearms, no federal charges have been filed. This incident follows two previous assassination attempts on Trump earlier in 2024. Such events have raised security concerns at his public appearances. Supporters of Miller believe he was set up because of his right-wing activism. The investigation remains ongoing.
While local authorities believe they thwarted another assassination attempt, Miller’s supporters maintain his innocence, and the federal investigation continues. Regardless, this incident adds to the growing list of security challenges Trump has faced during his campaign.
