Panic broke out Saturday night in Washington, D.C. after gunshots were heard near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, forcing security agents to rush President Donald Trump and other top officials to safety.
Government Executive reported that the shooting happened at the Washington Hilton, where journalists, government leaders, and guests had gathered for the yearly event hosted by the White House Correspondents’ Association. According to the U.S. Secret Service, the gunfire came from near the main security checkpoint as people were entering the hotel.
Agents quickly drew their weapons and locked down the area. Government officials confirmed that one person was arrested, but police had not shared the suspect’s name or motive when Government Executive filed its report.
People at the scene described chaos after hearing several loud bangs. Officers shouted warnings and moved guests away from the danger. Reporter Jacqui Heinrich said everyone was told to stay put while agents checked the area.
President Trump and the First Lady were taken out of the building immediately. Officials said none of the protected guests were hurt. Trump later told government aides he was “in perfect condition” and thanked security officers for acting fast and bravely. His spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, said the president planned to speak to the public later that night.
Trump hinted to government officials that the dinner could still go on, but said the final call was up to law enforcement. The shooting cut short the formal event, which usually brings politicians and reporters together. This year’s dinner had already drawn attention because of Trump’s rocky relationship with the media, officials noted.
Investigators are now trying to find out if the suspect was trying to target Trump. If so, it would be the third attempt on his life. He survived an attack at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania in July 2024 and another man was arrested near his Florida home later that year. The police revealed the situation is now under control, but the incident has raised new worries about safety at big political events in the U.S.
Another report by CNN has disclosed that the suspect, who remains in custody following his arrest, will face federal charges for using a firearm during a crime of violence and assaulting a federal officer with a dangerous weapon, according to U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro. Authorities have identified the individual as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen, a native of California.
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🎥 Credit: Associated Press (AP)
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