Washington: Former US President Donald Trump was safely evacuated after a shooting incident disrupted the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on Saturday night, according to officials. A suspect has been taken into custody following the attack, which triggered a large-scale security response.
The event, held at the Washington Hilton, was attended by thousands of guests, including senior government officials, journalists, and members of the administration.
Shooting Sparks Chaos at High-Profile Event
According to officials, the suspect opened fire with a shotgun near a security checkpoint outside the venue. A Secret Service agent was reportedly targeted but survived after being protected by a bulletproof vest.
Eyewitness accounts describe sudden panic inside the ballroom, with attendees instructed to take cover as security personnel responded to the threat. Many guests, including senior cabinet members, were evacuated immediately.
Trump and Officials Evacuated Safely
Security teams quickly escorted Trump, the First Lady, and other officials out of the venue. Cabinet members including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum were also moved to safety during the emergency response.
Trump later confirmed that all federal officials present were safe and described the attacker as a “sick person” and a “lone wolf,” according to his remarks following the incident.
Suspect Described as “Lone Wolf”
Authorities stated that the suspect acted alone, though investigations are ongoing. Trump said the individual appeared “pretty evil” when subdued by security forces.
Federal agencies are reportedly conducting raids linked to the suspect’s background, while the FBI continues to investigate the motive and planning behind the attack.
The alleged shooter lies prone on the floor after being subdued by Secret Service agents. — TruthSocial/@RealDonaldTrump
Event Evacuated Amid Panic
The dinner, one of Washington’s most prominent annual political and media gatherings, descended into chaos after loud bangs were heard. Guests were instructed to get down as security teams secured the area and cleared the building.
Videos and images showed armed personnel storming the stage and securing exits as attendees fled or took cover.
Context of Previous Security Threats
The incident comes after previous assassination attempts against Trump during his political career, including one during a 2024 campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Those events led to increased security protocols around high-profile political figures.
The Washington Hilton, where the dinner was held, has historical significance as the site of a 1981 assassination attempt on former US President Ronald Reagan.
Authorities are treating the incident as a serious security breach, with investigations continuing into how the suspect was able to approach a heavily secured event.
Officials have not confirmed whether additional security measures will be introduced for future public events, but the attack is expected to prompt renewed scrutiny of protection protocols for high-profile political gatherings in the United States.
