Man who tried to assassinate Trump stabs himself after he’s found guilty

Courtroom chaos erupted in Florida on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, after Ryan Routh, the man who attempted to assassinate former U.S. President Donald Trump in September 2024, stabbed himself in the neck with a pen moments after being found guilty on all charges.

The 59-year-old was convicted by a unanimous jury decision before the shocking incident unfolded. Court officials and security personnel immediately intervened to restrain him and provide emergency medical attention.

Routh was arrested in Palm Beach, Florida, last year after a dramatic manhunt. Secret Service agents had discovered him hiding in the bushes near one of Trump’s golf courses while the Republican frontrunner was playing a round.

A gun and a camera were found at the scene where Routh fled. After the verdict was read, Routh began stabbing at his neck with a pen.

His daughter, Sarah Ellen Routh, also reportedly began screaming expletives in the courtroom before crying and storming out of the building. She was later filmed sobbing and running past cameras as she left.

Routh’s son, Adam Routh, was also spotted leaving the courtroom after the guilty verdict.

Routh was found guilty of attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, felony possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and assaulting a federal officer.

Routh faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. His sentencing is expected on December 18.

Trump congratulated Attorney General Pam Bondi and her department after the conviction.

“The trial was meticulously handled, and I would like to thank the Judge and Jury for their time, professionalism, and patience,” the president said in a statement.

“This was an evil man with an evil intention, and they caught him.”