Florida law enforcement will launch a criminal investigation of the apparent assassination attempt targeting former President Donald Trump, Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday.
The state-level probe will run parallel to the federal investigation into Ryan Wesley Routh, who was charged Monday with federal firearms offenses . DeSantis said Florida prosecutors will pursue the most serious charges available under state law, including attempted murder.
"We have a very strong interest in holding this suspect accountable," DeSantis told reporters.
The federal investigation into the incident at Trump's West Palm Beach golf course is in the early stages. Additional and more serious federal charges are possible as Justice Department prosecutors seek an indictment from a grand jury.
The FBI has interviewed the suspect's family members, friends and colleagues and is working to collect evidence. No motive has been disclosed, and Routh invoked his right to an attorney when questioned, authorities said.
