When Robert Kennedy was shot, his last words before losing consciousness were, "Don't lift me."
Robert Kennedy's Last Words After Being Shot
On June 5, 1968, shortly after midnight, following his victory in the California presidential primary, Robert F. Kennedy was tragically shot at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles. In the immediate chaos that ensued, his campaign manager and brother-in-law, Stephen Edward Smith, promptly called for medical assistance.
After several minutes, medical attendants arrived on the scene and began to lift Kennedy onto a stretcher. It was at this crucial moment that Kennedy whispered, "Don't lift me." These words proved to be his very last before he lost consciousness shortly thereafter.
Immediate Events Following the Shooting
The moments immediately following the shooting were marked by urgency and distress. Here is a brief timeline of the critical events:
| Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Shooting Incident | Robert F. Kennedy was shot on June 5, 1968, after celebrating his California primary victory. |
| Call for Medical Aid | His campaign manager, Stephen Edward Smith, immediately requested a doctor. |
| Arrival of Attendants | Medical attendants reached Kennedy several minutes after the shooting. |
| Final Conscious Words | As he was being lifted onto a stretcher, Kennedy whispered, "Don't lift me." |
| Loss of Consciousness | He lost consciousness shortly after uttering these words, marking the end of his conscious communication. |
The Aftermath and Significance
The assassination of Robert F. Kennedy sent shockwaves across the nation, adding to a tumultuous period in American history. His final words provide a poignant glimpse into his last moments of consciousness before succumbing to his injuries. The event remains a significant and somber chapter in the political history of the United States.
