Panic at White House Correspondents’ Dinner! Trump rushed out after gunfire heard
US President Donald Trump was escorted out of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner by his security team after shouting and gunfire were heard inside the venue. Trump later said the armed suspect had been captured and that one security officer had been wounded.
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner was interrupted by a security scare during Donald Trump’s first appearance at the event as president. Shortly after dinner service began at the Hilton Hotel, shouting broke out and gunshots were heard in the hall. Secret Service agents quickly surrounded Trump and First Lady Melania Trump before removing them from the room.
Trump was rushed out of the venue
Trump was attending the White House Correspondents’ Dinner for the first time during his presidency when the incident unfolded.
As the event was being broadcast live, security teams were seen inside the hall carrying long guns. Officers broke through security barriers to reach Trump’s table, then moved the president and Melania Trump out of the venue.
Panic spread through the hall
Some guests were heard screaming during the incident, while others chanted “USA.” After the brief panic, an announcement was made that the program would continue.
US media reported that a suspect had been taken into custody at the hotel, though that information had not initially been confirmed by officials.
Trump said the gunman was captured
Minutes later, Trump posted on social media that the armed suspect had been caught.
“It was quite an evening. The Secret Service and law enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The armed gunman was captured,” Trump said.
Trump added that he had suggested the program continue, but said he would fully follow the guidance of law enforcement.
One officer was wounded
After the shooting, Trump held a press conference at the White House and gave further details about the incident.
“A man armed with multiple weapons attacked the security checkpoint. He was neutralized by very brave members of the Secret Service. One officer was shot but survived. I just spoke with the officer, and he is doing very well,” Trump said.
Dinner will be rescheduled
Trump said he had wanted the dinner to continue despite the attack, but after speaking with event representatives, the night was canceled. He said the dinner would be rescheduled within 30 days.
The US president also linked the incident to security plans for the White House, saying this was why the ballroom project and stronger protective arrangements were needed.
Asked about a possible Iran link
Trump was also asked whether the attack could be connected to the war with Iran.
“I don’t think so, but you never know,” he said.
Trump added, “This will not stop me from winning the war in Iran. I don’t know whether it has anything to do with that. Based on what we know, I don’t really think so.”
White House prepared a statement
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump was preparing to make a statement at the White House.
Trump later shared video footage of the incident and a photo showing the suspect being taken into custody.
