Story perspectives

Today in History: Manson follower Squeaky Fromme tries to kill Ford

9/5/2026

34 7

Summary

Story summary

On September 5 1975, Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme, a Manson Family follower, stepped onto the California State Capitol lawn in Sacramento and pointed an M1911 pistol at President Gerald Ford. She pulled the trigger without chambering a round, missing the president and prompting her immediate arrest.

1 of 1

Story summary

On September 5 1975, Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme, a Manson Family follower, stepped onto the California State Capitol lawn in Sacramento and pointed an M1911 pistol at President Gerald Ford. She pulled the trigger without chambering a round, missing the president and prompting her immediate arrest.