Agencies | Washington:
US President Donald Trump on Sunday said the suspect behind the shooting scare at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner was heavily armed, highlighting the seriousness of the security breach at the high-profile event in Washington.
According to Trump, the attacker charged a security checkpoint carrying multiple weapons before being swiftly neutralised by security personnel. “A man charged a security checkpoint armed with multiple weapons, and he was taken down by some very brave members of the Secret Service,” he said, praising the rapid response.
The incident occurred at the Washington Hilton, where hundreds of journalists, officials and dignitaries had gathered for the annual event. Reports indicate that gunshots were fired outside the ballroom, triggering panic among attendees, some of whom took cover under tables. Witnesses reported hearing multiple rounds of gunfire.
Security forces immediately moved to secure the area and evacuate key officials, including Vice President JD Vance and members of the Cabinet. The suspect was later taken into custody, and an investigation is currently underway.
Trump confirmed that a law enforcement officer was shot during the incident but survived due to wearing a bulletproof vest. “He was shot from a very close distance with a very powerful gun, and the vest did the job. He’s doing great and in high spirits,” the President said.
Authorities are expected to release visual evidence of the incident as part of transparency measures. Meanwhile, organisers have postponed the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, citing security concerns.
Heavy deployment of security forces, including National Guard units and aerial surveillance, was seen around the venue as law enforcement agencies worked to secure the area and prevent further threats.
