The U.S. President Donald Trump and the First Lady were unhurt after a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., on Saturday night.
The United States Secret Service confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody, adding that investigations are ongoing in collaboration with local law enforcement.
The BBC reported that the shooting occurred near the main security screening area at the event venue, the Washington Hilton, where hundreds of journalists, politicians, and guests had gathered.
“The president and first lady are safe along with all protectees,” the statement read, noting that the condition of those involved in the incident was still being assessed.
Witnesses reported hearing what sounded like gunshots shortly after 8:30 p.m., triggering panic as attendees fled the ballroom. Security operatives were seen swiftly evacuating top officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance and members of the cabinet.
Video footage from the scene showed Secret Service agents clearing the stage and ushering the president and other dignitaries to safety, while voices were heard urging people to “stay down.”
Shortly after the incident, Trump praised security agencies for their swift response.
“Secret Service and law enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended,” he said in a post on social media.
He added that while he initially suggested the event continue, final decisions would be made by security authorities, noting that the evening’s programme had been significantly disrupted.
Organisers later confirmed that the president would address the press, with plans to possibly reschedule the event within 30 days.
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner is an annual gathering that brings together journalists, political leaders, and public figures, and is often seen as a key moment celebrating press freedom in the United States.
…’Gala shooting suspect a ‘would-be assassin’
Reacting to the development, President Trump has described the suspect behind the shooting incident at a Washington media gala as a “would-be assassin,” saying the individual was heavily armed and breached security before being stopped.
The incident occurred on Saturday night during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton, where gunfire near a security checkpoint triggered panic and forced the evacuation of senior officials, journalists, and guests.
Trump said the suspect “charged past a security checkpoint” and was carrying multiple weapons.
He confirmed that one law enforcement officer was shot but survived due to wearing a bulletproof vest.
Authorities said the suspect was quickly apprehended by Secret Service agents, while the president, first lady, and other high-profile attendees were safely escorted from the venue.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as guests ducked under tables and security personnel rushed in with weapons drawn to secure the area.
Trump also raised concerns about the venue’s security, noting that it was “not a particularly secure building” based on the events that unfolded.
The event has since been cancelled and is expected to be rescheduled, while investigations continue into the motive of the suspect and how the breach occurred.
The shooting has renewed scrutiny over security arrangements at high-profile public events in the US, particularly those attended by top political leaders and members of the press.
Discover more from TheTimes Nigeria
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
