Trump safe after shooting scare at White House dinner, gunman in custody

President Donald Trump and top officials were evacuated after a shotgun attack near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.

Webdesk – MediaBites News

Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were rushed to safety after a gunman opened fire near the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner on Saturday night, officials said.

Authorities said the suspect, reportedly armed with a shotgun and multiple weapons, fired at security personnel near the main screening area outside the event venue before being apprehended. All federal officials attending the dinner, including Trump, were reported safe.

Trump later told reporters at the White House that a Secret Service officer was struck but saved by a bulletproof vest and was in “good shape.” He described the suspect as a “sick person” and praised security personnel for acting quickly.

“A man charged a security checkpoint armed with multiple weapons, and he was taken down by some very brave members of the Secret Service,” Trump said after the gala was canceled.

Witnesses described scenes of panic inside the ballroom after gunshots were heard, with attendees screaming “Get down” as nearly 2,600 guests took cover. Security agents reportedly pushed senior officials to the floor and evacuated cabinet members one by one.

Among those present were Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.

The event, held at the Washington Hilton, is one of Washington’s highest-profile annual gatherings involving media figures, politicians and senior officials.

Federal investigators believe the suspect may have acted alone. Trump said authorities were also raiding the alleged attacker’s California home.

The incident renews concerns over presidential security after Trump faced two assassination attempts during the 2024 campaign season.