Ryan Routh, 58, was arrested on Sunday in West Palm Beach, Florida, after allegedly attempting to assassinate the Republican presidential nominee while he was golfing. Armed with an AK-47-style rifle, Routh was intercepted by the Secret Service before he could carry out the plot, according to officials familiar with the case.

Routh, a self-proclaimed advocate for various political causes, has a volatile online presence that paints a complex picture of shifting political views. His posts span support for progressive candidates such as Bernie Sanders, Tulsi Gabbard, and even former President Donald Trump—whom he once voted for but later condemned in strong terms. In his self-published book Ukraine’s Unwinnable War, Routh described Trump as a “fool” and “buffoon” for his role in the January 6th Capitol riots and for exiting the Iran nuclear deal, even urging Iran to assassinate the former president.

In addition to his volatile political views, Routh’s past includes a criminal history with felony convictions, including a 2002 standoff with police. Despite these offenses, he was able to avoid prison and continued his varied pursuits. In recent years, Routh became known for his efforts to recruit volunteers to fight for Ukraine, although Ukrainian military officials described his ideas as “delusional” and confirmed he never served with their forces.

Routh’s arrest has shocked those who knew him, particularly neighbors in Kaaawa, Hawaii, where he had moved in 2018. According to his neighbors, he was quiet and respectful, focused on a business venture building housing to address homelessness on the island.

Authorities are now investigating Routh’s motives, with three officials confirming his identity and criminal past while exploring the circumstances surrounding the alleged assassination attempt.

Credit: Associated Press