- Law enforcement officers quickly engaged the suspect, leading to an exchange of gunfire inside the premises
- Secret Service confirmed that Trump and other protected individuals were unharmed during the incident
- one officer was struck at close range, with the bullet stopped by a protective vest
A security scare disrupted the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington on Saturday night after a gunman opened fire at the venue, prompting the evacuation of Donald Trump and other high-profile guests.
According to authorities, Eko Hot Blog gathered that the incident occurred at the Washington Hilton hotel when a man armed with multiple weapons attempted to breach a Secret Service checkpoint.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Lassa Fever Hits Oyo, Government Activates Emergency Response
- Bruno Fernandes Reveals Why He Rejected Huge Al Hilal Move
- FG Defends Borrowing Strategy
Law enforcement officers quickly engaged the suspect, leading to an exchange of gunfire inside the premises.
The Secret Service confirmed that Trump and other protected individuals were unharmed during the incident.
However, one officer was struck at close range, with the bullet stopped by a protective vest. The injured agent was taken to hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.
Police said the suspect, believed to be a man in his early 30s from California, was subdued and taken into custody after being tackled by security personnel. He was later transported to a hospital for evaluation.
Authorities added that he appeared to have acted alone and was not previously known to law enforcement.
Investigators revealed that the attacker was carrying a shotgun, a handgun and several knives at the time of the assault. Officials described the situation as fluid, noting that additional charges could be filed as inquiries continue.
The suspect is expected to face federal charges, including assault on a federal officer and firearms offences.
Speaking after the incident, Trump praised the swift response of security agencies, describing their actions as decisive and effective. He also called for unity, urging Americans to resolve differences peacefully in light of the event.
The dinner, which typically brings together political leaders, journalists and public figures, was cut short due to safety concerns. Authorities have since heightened security measures around the area while investigations remain ongoing.
Officials emphasised that the rapid intervention by law enforcement prevented what could have been a far more serious attack.
FURTHER READING
