Doug Mills, a photographer for the New York Times, was in close proximity to Donald Trump when gunshots rang out at Saturday's rally. He recounted the chaotic scene as he captured photos of the attempted assassination.
Mills described how he was setting up his camera to take a picture of the former president on stage when he suddenly heard what he initially thought were pops. Not being familiar with the sound of an AR-15, he likened it to a motorcycle or some type of machinery. However, upon seeing Trump grab his ear, wince, and then collapse, Mills realized the severity of the situation. He recalled, 'Oh, my God, he's been shot.' The intensity of the moment still gives him chills.
Reacting swiftly, Mills attempted to move to the side to capture an image of Trump on the ground. By the time he reached the scene, the former president was shielded by the Secret Service agents in his detail.
A two-time Pulitzer Prize winner with experience photographing numerous presidents, Mills expressed disbelief at witnessing an attempted assassination, particularly at a campaign rally. Despite the heavy security presence at such events, including local and state police, as well as Secret Service agents, Mills never imagined such a harrowing incident unfolding right before his eyes.
