President Donald Trump was uninjured after a shooting incident outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton on Saturday night. Secret Service and law enforcement swiftly evacuated the venue amidst an unspecified threat, with hundreds of guests ducking under tables as shots were fired.
Suspect Named
The shooter has been identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California, according to two law enforcement officials. Authorities confirmed a suspect opened fire, but details are still limited.
Security Response
The Secret Service, National Guard, and other law enforcement agencies provided a rapid security response, securing the banquet hall and evacuating attendees, including Vice President JD Vance, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. One officer was shot in a bullet-resistant vest but is expected to recover.
Guests Reactions
Witnesses reported hearing between five and eight shots before the room was cleared. Trump initially thought the noise was a dropped tray, but the First Lady immediately recognised it as gunfire. Trump insisted the event would be rescheduled and promised enhanced safety measures.
Event Status
White House Correspondents’ Association President Weijia Jiang confirmed that everyone is safe and the dinner will be held again. The president said, “It was a little different evening than we thought. But we’re going to do it again,” stressing the upcoming event will be “better” and “safer.”
