Attempted assassination of Gerald Ford in Sacramento

Ford rushed from Sacramento assassination attempt image A6320-23A

Attempted assassination of Gerald Ford in Sacramento

The attempted assassination of Gerald Ford in Sacramento occurred on September 5, 1975, when Lynette "Squeaky" Fromme, a member of the Manson Family cult, attempted to assassinate President Gerald Ford. Fromme aimed a handgun at Ford in Capitol Park in Sacramento, California, but was quickly subdued by Secret Service agents before she could fire a shot.

Background

Lynette Fromme was a devoted follower of Charles Manson, the infamous cult leader. She believed that by assassinating President Ford, she could draw attention to Manson's imprisonment and spark a race war that Manson had prophesied. Fromme managed to approach Ford while he was walking to the California State Capitol building, but her assassination attempt was thwarted before any harm could be done.

Aftermath

Following the incident, Fromme was arrested and charged with attempted assassination of the President. She was later convicted and sentenced to life in prison. The attempted assassination of Gerald Ford in Sacramento highlighted the security challenges faced by the Secret Service in protecting the President.

Legacy

The attempted assassination of Gerald Ford in Sacramento remains a significant event in American history, underscoring the threats faced by public figures and the importance of robust security measures. The incident also raised questions about the motivations of individuals involved in extremist groups and the potential dangers they pose to society.