The gun was loaded with five rounds, according to President Alberto Fernández. "Cristina remains alive because, for a reason not yet technically confirmed, the gun, which contained five bullets, did not fire," he said in a nationwide television broadcast, describing the attack as "the most serious incident since we recovered democracy" in 1983.  

Amidst a throng of supporters outside her home, Vice President Fernández was exiting her vehicle when a pistol emerged from the crowd -- the muzzle just inches from her face.  

Fernández de Kirchner blinked and ducked down as first the crowd and then her security detail reacted. The assailant was quickly apprehended as he stood amongst her backers. Though his name has not yet been released, authorities say he is a 35-year old of Brazilian origin.