FBI Links Ryan Routh to Rifle in Trump Assassination Attempt Through Fingerprint Evidence

In a pivotal moment in the federal trial of Ryan Routh, an FBI forensic analyst delivered damning testimony on Monday, confirming that the defendant’s fingerprint was found on the rifle scope used in the September 2024 assassination attempt on President Trump. The testimony marks a crucial piece of evidence as prosecutors build their case that the 59-year-old construction worker spent weeks plotting the attack at Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach.

A Secret Service agent, Robert Fercano, provided a first-hand account of the confrontation. He testified that he came within five feet of Routh while conducting a security sweep. Fercano said he first noticed "abnormalities" in the tree line before seeing "what appeared to be the face of an individual." When he saw that Routh was armed, he drew his pistol and fired. During cross-examination, Fercano told the defendant, "I don’t know your mindset that day, but I know you pointed [your rifle] at my face." After Fercano opened fire, Routh dropped his weapon and fled, but was arrested about 45 minutes later with the help of a civilian witness.

Evidence recovered from Routh’s black Nissan Xterra painted a portrait of a meticulously planned attack. An FBI team leader, Cindy Barrois, testified that investigators found six cellphones, multiple pairs of black gloves, and handwritten notes listing items like "pipe" and "C-clamp." More ominously, investigators discovered flight information to Mexico and Colombia under an alias and a paper that read, "Make tourniquet." Prosecutors also presented receipts showing Routh had been in Palm Beach County for 30 nights leading up to the incident. A weapons expert confirmed that the SKS rifle was in working order.

Routh, who is representing himself, has displayed bizarre behaviour in court. He asked Agent Fercano, "Is it good to be alive?" and, during his opening statement, was cut short by Judge Aileen Cannon for rambling remarks, at one point saying, "This case means absolutely nothing."

Prosecutors have indicated they will likely rest their case by Thursday. If convicted on the attempted assassination charge, Routh faces a maximum penalty of life in prison