An apparent would-be assassin stormed a formal dinner event in Washington DC on Saturday evening, where President Donald Trump was preparing to address top US journalists. Gunshots rang out at the hotel hosting the White House Correspondents' Dinner, with one Secret Service agent struck but reported to be in good spirits, according to the President.
Chaos at the White House Correspondents' Dinner
Dramatic footage from the scene shows personnel rushing onto the stage to usher away Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and several other senior administration officials. Multiple agents in full protective gear then replaced them, pointing their weapons across the room and over the heads of hundreds of high-profile guests.
Officials stated that the attacker was armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives when he charged at a security checkpoint near the ballroom. Trump later posted images of the suspect lying face down on the carpeted floor, topless. US media outlets identified the suspect as Cole Thomas Allen, 31, from Torrance, California.
Washington Police Chief Jeffery Carroll said it is believed the suspect had been staying as a guest at the Watergate hotel, where the event was taking place. According to reporters in the room, commotion was heard toward the back of the ballroom just after 8:30 pm on Saturday, while attendees were being served the first course of their meal. The President, the First Lady, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio had taken their seats minutes before.
President's Response
At a press conference approximately 90 minutes after the attack, Trump described the suspect as a “very sick person” who appeared to be a “lone wolf.” This incident marks the third time in two years that a gunman has come close to firing at Donald Trump. The previous two incidents occurred ahead of the 2024 US Presidential Election, which he went on to win.
Saturday evening marked the first time Donald Trump had attended the White House Correspondents' Dinner, a formal event intended to celebrate freedom of the press, during either of his terms. Trump stated that the postponed ceremony will take place soon.
This breaking story continues to develop. More updates will follow as information becomes available.
