US President Donald Trump was rushed out of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night after gunfire erupted outside the ballroom hosting the event.
Vice President JD Vance, along with several cabinet members in attendance, was also evacuated by security teams. In a statement posted on X, the US Secret Service said it was working alongside the Metropolitan Police Department to investigate the incident, confirming that “the president and the first lady are safe along with all protectees.” The agency added that a suspect had been taken into custody.
An FBI official told Reuters that the suspect, armed with a shotgun, handgun and multiple knives, fired at a Secret Service agent. The agent was struck in an area protected by body armour and was not injured.
The suspect was later transported to hospital for evaluation, officials said.
“Quite an evening in DC,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely.”
Speaking at a subsequent press conference, Trump praised the speed and professionalism of the response, adding that authorities currently believe the suspect acted alone. Asked whether the shooting was linked to tensions between the United States and Iran, he dismissed the idea and said the incident would not affect his resolve.
Trump framed the attack as the latest in a serious of threats to the country, calling for calm and unity.
"This is not the first time in the past couple of years that our Republic has been attacked by a would-be assassin who sought to kill," Trump said. "In light of this evening's events, I ask that all Americans recommit with their hearts in resolving our differences peacefully."
US attorney Jeanine Pirro said the suspect faces two charges and is expected to be arraigned on Monday.
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