Watch: Trump Escorted Out After Gunfire At White House Correspondents’ Dinner, Suspect Arrested
US President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President JD Vance were evacuated from the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington after gunshots were heard near the venue. Authorities later confirmed a suspect was taken into custody.
A major security scare unfolded in Washington late Saturday night when gunfire was reported near the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner at the Washington Hilton hotel, forcing the immediate evacuation of US President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Cabinet officials and hundreds of guests.
The annual high-profile event, attended by politicians, journalists and public figures, was disrupted when loud bangs were heard near the security screening area. Secret Service officers quickly moved Trump and senior officials to safety.
What Happened At The Venue
According to initial reports, an armed man attempted to breach security at the entrance checkpoint outside the ballroom where around 2,600 guests were present.
Witnesses described panic inside the hall as people shouted, “Get down, get down!” while guests ducked under tables and security teams rushed toward the stage. Trump and Melania were seen bending behind the dais before being escorted out.
Suspect In Custody
About an hour after the incident, Trump posted on Truth Social saying a “shooter had been apprehended.”
He wrote: “Quite an evening in DC Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job.”
Multiple reports identified the suspect as Cole Thomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, though authorities were still processing charges at the time of reporting.
Officer Reportedly Struck, No Major Injuries
Reports said one Secret Service agent was hit in an area protected by body armour and was not seriously injured. No injuries were reported among Trump, senior officials or guests.
Trump Says Incident Will Not Deter Him
Later speaking to reporters, Trump said the shooting would not stop him from continuing his administration’s agenda.
When asked whether the incident was linked to the ongoing Iran conflict, Trump said: “I don’t think so, but you never know.”
Event Cancelled Amid Investigation
Following the evacuation, guests remained inside for some time before the ballroom was eventually cleared. Security agencies have launched a full investigation into the motive and circumstances behind the attempted breach.
The White House Correspondents’ dinner is one of Washington’s most visible annual political-media gatherings, making the incident a significant security event.
