A dramatic security scare unfolded Saturday night as Donald Trump was swiftly evacuated from a high-profile media gala in Washington after gunfire erupted near the venue.
The incident occurred during the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner at the Washington Hilton, where top officials, journalists, and dignitaries had gathered.
According to Trump, “A man charged a security checkpoint armed with multiple weapons, and he was taken down by some very brave members of the Secret Service.”
Panic spread across the ballroom as guests scrambled for safety while security operatives rushed the president off the stage.
Authorities confirmed that armed guards engaged the suspect, who was later subdued at the scene after attempting to breach security.
Trump revealed that one officer was shot at close range but reassured that the officer “appears not to be critically injured.”
Describing the chaos, Trump said he initially mistook the gunshots for a dropped tray before realizing the seriousness of the situation.
Police later disclosed that the suspect carried a shotgun, handgun, and knives, and may have been staying at the hotel as a guest.
Washington Police Chief Jeffery Carroll stated, “A US Secret Service uniformed division officer was struck in his vest… He appears to be in good spirits.”
Despite the scare, Trump said the attacker appeared to be a “lone wolf” and indicated plans to reschedule the event within a month as investigations continue.
