Washington, April 26, (dpa/GNA) – A suspected attacker has been apprehended, after shots rang out at a press dinner in Washington on Saturday evening, leading security forces to evacuate Donald Trump and his wife, the US president said.
The incident occurred during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, with Trump, Vice President JD Vance and other senior officials in attendance. After a loud noise was heard, security personnel quickly entered the room and escorted the president and First Lady Melania Trump from the stage.
According to a CNN reporter, a shooter fired several shots before being subdued by security forces. A photograph showed armed officers surrounding a person lying on the ground.
Other guests at the event reportedly took cover under tables, as heavily armed security officers secured the venue.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said “the First Lady, plus the Vice President, and all Cabinet members, are in perfect condition.” He said the event would be rescheduled within 30 days.
According to the Secret Service, the incident occurred near the security screening area for the event held at a hotel.
Trump told a press conference at the White House that the suspect was carrying multiple weapons, and police later confirmed he was armed with a shotgun, a handgun and several knives.
The president also posted a video on Truth Social, appearing to show the suspect running past security officers, who then pointed their weapons at him. It was not clear whether the attacker had been targeting the president, Trump said, adding that he had been some distance away at the time.
“The reaction time was great,” Trump said, referring to the actions of security personnel.
A US Secret Service officer was shot during the attack, Trump told the press conference, saying the officer was hit at close range by a “powerful gun,” but was saved by a bulletproof vest.
“I just spoke to the officer, and he’s doing great,” Trump said.
The Secret Service is responsible for protecting the US president and other senior officials.
Trump said authorities believe the suspect likely acted alone.
GNA