A gunman opened fire near the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on Saturday evening, triggering panic inside the Washington Hilton and forcing President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance and senior officials to be rushed from the stage by Secret Service agents.
The annual event, attended by hundreds of journalists, politicians and public figures, descended into chaos when shots were heard near a security checkpoint outside the ballroom. Video from the venue showed Secret Service personnel sprinting onto the stage before escorting Trump and Vance out of the room as guests took cover under tables and voices shouted warnings to “get down.”
Law enforcement officials identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California. According to authorities, Allen attempted to force entry into the secured area while carrying a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives. Police said he charged a Secret Service checkpoint shortly before 8:36 p.m., prompting an exchange of gunfire with officers.
The FBI confirmed the suspect was detained at the scene. Officials said a law enforcement officer was shot during the confrontation but survived due to a bulletproof vest. The officer was later reported to be in stable condition.
Trump addressed the incident shortly after leaving the venue, describing the attacker as a “lone wolf whack job.” He urged the public to avoid political division in the wake of the shooting.
“In light of this evening’s events, I ask that all Americans recommit with their hearts to resolving our differences peacefully,” he said.
The president also said he had ordered the release of security footage from the incident, which he later shared on social media. The video reportedly showed the suspect running through a screening area before being confronted by armed officers.
The Washington Metropolitan Police Department said the gunman breached an outer checkpoint while carrying multiple weapons. Officers engaged the suspect after he advanced toward the restricted area near the ballroom.
Inside the venue, chaos unfolded as guests attempted to shelter. CNN journalist Wolf Blitzer, who was nearby, said he witnessed multiple gunshots and described the weapon used as “very serious.” Other attendees reported hearing several loud blasts before security personnel began evacuating officials.
Trump later said he had initially wanted to continue the event but was advised by law enforcement to leave for safety reasons. He confirmed that all senior officials, including the First Lady and Vice President, were unharmed and said the dinner would be rescheduled within 30 days.
Speaking afterward, Trump reflected on repeated threats against his life, referencing past assassination attempts during his political career. He suggested that prominent leaders are often targeted due to their influence and visibility.
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident as security procedures at high-profile events in Washington come under renewed scrutiny.
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