On April 25 (US time), gunshots suddenly rang at the White House Press Association's gala dinner at the Washington Hilton Hotel, where US President Donald Trump was attending with thousands of guests. The incident panicked many people, who had to find shelter under the table when loud explosions appeared.
Special forces quickly arrived, deployed security measures and escorted Mr. Trump out of the area. Images from the scene showed the US President being closely protected by the secret service. Police also blockaded the area around the hotel, while helicopters flew around the air to assist in controlling the situation.
According to information from the intelligence agency, the suspect has been arrested. Security sources said the suspect is a man about 30 years old from California. The New York Times quoted sources identifying the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31 years old, from Torrance.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that functional forces seized a rifle and many bullet casings at the scene. Mr. Trump said the suspect carried many types of weapons when appearing outside the banquet hall area. The suspect is still alive and is being treated at the hospital for injuries sustained during the process of being controlled.
Mr. Trump's aides confirmed he was safe after the incident. Vice President JD Vance and cabinet members were also evacuated quickly and no casualties were recorded.
The White House Press Association's gala is an annual event, first held in 1921, with about 2,600 attendees. This is the first time Mr. Trump has attended directly after many years of absence.
