Trump rushed off stage at Pennsylvania rally

Secret Service agents quickly escorted former President Donald Trump off stage at a rally in Pennsylvania when it was believed that gunshots had been heard.

Video showed him making a face and covering his ear with his hand, then quickly bending down as loud noises - possibly gunshots - were heard.

He was suddenly surrounded by secret service agents and quickly taken off the stage to a waiting car.

Trump's campaign said he was okay and was undergoing examination at a nearby medical center.

President Trump expresses gratitude to law enforcement and first responders for their prompt response in the midst of this terrible act," spokesperson Steven Cheung stated.

The ex-president was seen with what seemed to be blood on his ear and he raised his hand in a fist as he was quickly escorted off the stage and into a car.

Police officers with weapons went up to the stage shortly after.

The Secret Service confirmed that Trump is secure and that precautions have been taken to protect him.

They mentioned that a thorough investigation is currently in progress and more details will be shared as they become known.

The Republican nominee for president was speaking to his followers in Butler, Pennsylvania - an important state that could go either way in the upcoming election.

Loud noises could be heard while Trump discussed President Joe Biden and his administration.

Many people holding signs in support of Trump moved out of the way when they heard what sounded like gunshots.

One person who was present, Jason, informed the BBC that he heard five gunshots that were fired rapidly, one after another.

He explained how the Secret Service quickly reacted to protect Trump by jumping on him, causing everyone in the crowd to also quickly drop down.

"He then quickly got up from his seat and raised his fist in the air, speaking briefly."

Tim, who was also present at the rally, informed the BBC that he had heard a continuous stream of gunshots.

"We saw something that looked like a fire hose spray at first, but then we noticed the speaker on the right side descending," he explained.

There must have been an impact on the hydraulic lines, which led to its collapse. President Trump was seen falling to the ground, and chaos ensued as everyone began dropping to the ground.

The White House reported that President Biden, who is currently in Delaware, has been given an early update.

Politicians from all sides have criticized the apparent assault.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who is a member of the Democratic party, stated that any violence aimed at a political party or its leaders is completely unacceptable.

Ex-Vice President Mike Pence shared that he and his wife were sending their prayers to Trump, and he encouraged all Americans to do the same.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed his support for former President Trump, sending thoughts and prayers his way. He also appreciated the swift action taken by law enforcement. Jeffries emphasized that the United States is a democracy and any form of political violence is not tolerated.