During a White House Correspondents’ Association gala, President Trump was evacuated from a Washington, D.C. hotel after sounds resembling gunfire were heard.
Trump Attends White House Correspondents’ Dinner
Donald Trump was attending the White House Correspondents’ Association gala when the incident occurred. Shortly after the dinner began at the Hilton hotel, loud sounds, described as gunfire, were heard.
President Trump, who was on stage, was evacuated by Secret Service agents. First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and other cabinet members were also evacuated.
Suspect and Agent Injured
According to reports, a 30-year-old man attempted to breach security. An agent of the Secret Service was reportedly struck by a bullet, but was protected by a bulletproof vest and is in good condition.
Suspect Identified
CNN reported, citing law enforcement sources, that the suspect is a 30-year-old man from California.
Witness Accounts
CNN journalist Wolf Blitzer stated he saw the shooter lying on the ground while firing. Others described the scene as frightening and chaotic.
Trump’s Response
President Trump posted on Truth Social, praising the Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift action. He suggested the event could be rescheduled, stating, “This evening will definitely be different than planned and we will just have to do it again.”
Presidential Statement and Suspect Description
Following the evacuation, Trump delivered a statement from the White House, describing the attacker as a “very sick person” and “heavily armed.”
Event Postponed
Initially, there was discussion of resuming the dinner. However, Trump later announced the gala would be held within the next 30 days, a confirmation echoed by Weijia Jiang, chair of the White House Correspondents’ Association.
Attendees at the dinner reportedly took cover under tables during the incident.
