U S President Donald Trump was hurried out of a major public event in Washington DC on Saturday night after gunshots were reported outside the venue, causing panic among attendees and a swift security response.
The incident happened at the Washington Hilton, where the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner was set to take place. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump had already arrived and were seated inside the ballroom before the situation unfolded.
According to reports, gunshots were heard near a security screening area outside the main hall. Within seconds, security personnel moved in, urging guests to take cover. Some attendees were seen ducking behind tables as confusion spread across the room.
Secret Service agents quickly escorted the president out of the venue, prioritizing his safety and that of other top officials present. In a statement shared shortly after, Trump confirmed that he, the First Lady, Vice President, and all Cabinet members were safe.
“The First Lady, plus the Vice President, and all Cabinet members are in perfect condition,” Trump said, adding that he would address the nation from the White House.
He also announced that the event would be rescheduled within 30 days.
Authorities later confirmed that one person had been taken into custody in connection with the shooting. However, details about injuries or the suspect’s motive were not immediately released as investigations continued.
Trump praised the response of the United States Secret Service and local law enforcement, describing their actions as “quick and brave” in preventing what could have turned into a more serious incident.
Eyewitness accounts described hearing multiple gunshots, followed by a rapid and coordinated security operation. The scene outside the venue remained under tight control as officers worked to secure the area and assess the threat.
The incident has once again raised concerns about security at high-profile public gatherings, especially those involving top political leaders
More details are expected as authorities continue their investigation
Source: Al Jazeera
