Ryan Rouse Trial Over Alleged Attempt to Assassinate Trump Resumes

The federal trial of Ryan Rouse, who is accused of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump while he was golfing in September 2024, continues on Tuesday with further testimony from FBI forensic experts.

During Monday’s proceedings, the judge heard from Erich Smith, an FBI firearms and toolmark examiner. Smith stated that the rifle discovered near the sixth hole at Trump International Golf Club was a Chinese-made Norinko Squez. He noted that the weapon was in a “working state” when collected and had been successfully test-fired at the FBI lab, with rounds present and the safety mode disengaged.

Smith also mentioned that the rifle’s serial number was partially obscured but could be restored to some extent.

As part of the testimony, Smith presented a round of 7.62x39mm full metal jacket ammunition, noting, “Bullets are intended to create holes in things.” He added, “If it had hit its target, it would have made a hole.” Rouse, representing himself, questioned Smith about SKS rifles, the testing process, and the possibility of the rifle changing hands before the FBI could secure it, asking, “Should we take your word for it?”

Judge Irene Cannon intervened at various points, particularly when Rouse’s inquiries strayed from the main testimony. The court also heard from FBI biologist Curtis Gaur, who explained his efforts in gathering potential DNA samples from the rifle grips, gloves, zip ties, and other relevant items. Rouse pressed on the origin of the gloves and inquired about a deleted rifle scope.

The judges seemed puzzled during parts of Gaur’s testimony, particularly when the prosecutor mentioned display numbers without sufficient context. Meanwhile, Rouse appeared engaged, taking notes and showing interest as the court reviewed fingerprint evidence.

As the trial resumes on Tuesday, prosecutors plan to bring in FBI biologist Kara Gregor, alongside more digital forensic experts, to continue building their case against Rouse.