Authorities in Riverside County foiled what appeared to be the third assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump on Saturday, October 12, 2024, during his rally in the Coachella Valley. The incident unfolded when deputies assigned to the event stopped a black SUV at a checkpoint near Avenue 52 and Celebration Drive, just half a mile from the rally venue.
The driver, identified as 49-year-old Vem Miller, a Las Vegas resident, was found in possession of several weapons, including a shotgun, a loaded handgun, and a high-capacity magazine. Additionally, Miller was discovered with fake passes, potentially intended to bypass security measures at the rally.
The swift actions of deputies prevented what could have been a catastrophic event. Miller was taken into custody without incident and later booked at the John J. Benoit Detention Center on charges of illegal possession of firearms and a high-capacity magazine.
Authorities confirmed that the incident did not compromise the safety of former President Trump or any attendees at the rally. The investigation is ongoing, and officials are encouraging anyone with additional information to contact Deputy Coronado at the Palm Desert Sheriff’s Station at (760) 836-1600.
This latest incident adds to the growing concerns over security for high-profile political figures in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.
