Quick Summary
- Multiple gunshots erupted at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday evening
- President Trump and VP JD Vance were swiftly evacuated without injury
- One Secret Service agent sustained a gunshot wound but was protected by body armor
- Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old from Torrance, California, was apprehended at the scene and admitted to targeting administration officials
- The gala has been postponed and will be reorganized within a month
A dangerous situation unfolded at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday evening when at least six gunshots echoed through the Washington Hilton. Secret Service agents immediately shielded President Donald Trump and rushed him to safety.
The incident occurred approximately 8:35pm Eastern Time at the historic Washington Hilton venue. The gunfire originated from the lobby area near a security screening point, rather than the main ballroom where attendees were dining.
President Trump had been sitting at the head table alongside First Lady Melania Trump when protective agents swarmed the venue. Within 120 seconds, the entire head table area had been cleared.
Vice President JD Vance attended the function and was also safely removed from the premises. Other high-ranking officials including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were quickly guided through emergency routes.
A Secret Service agent sustained a gunshot injury at point-blank range. Thanks to protective body armor, the agent is anticipated to make a complete recovery.
Alleged Gunman Apprehended
Authorities have named the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, age 31, a resident of Torrance, California. Secret Service personnel overpowered and detained him immediately at the location. CBS News reported that Allen confessed his intention was to harm Trump administration members.
According to Trump‘s statement, Allen carried several firearms. Federal investigators and local police are currently executing a search warrant at a residence in Torrance, California. Formal charges are anticipated to be filed in court Monday.
CNN’s Wolf Blitzer had stepped away from the banquet hall and was positioned near the lobby during the shooting. A law enforcement officer forced him to the floor before escorting him to a protected area. Blitzer reported observing security personnel subduing the armed individual.
Approximately 2,600 attendees were present at the annual gathering. Many sought cover beneath tables as gunfire erupted. National Guard units along with additional law enforcement personnel surrounded the hotel perimeter while helicopters surveilled from above.
President’s Statement Following Incident
Trump conducted an unscheduled media briefing from the James Brady Press Room at the White House around 10:30pm. Still dressed in formal evening attire, he appeared alongside FBI Director Kash Patel and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin.
The President explained his initial assumption was that someone had dropped serving equipment before recognizing the sounds as gunshots. He commended the Secret Service for their swift and professional response.
Via Truth Social, Trump indicated he had suggested continuing the dinner but deferred to law enforcement recommendations. Officials ultimately decided to cancel the remainder of the event.
Trump announced plans to reschedule the dinner within the next 30 days. White House Correspondents’ Association president Weijia Jiang verified all attendees were unharmed and confirmed rescheduling plans.
The Washington Hilton holds historical significance as the location where President Ronald Reagan survived an assassination attempt in 1981.
