Shots were heard during the traditional correspondents’ dinner in Washington. US President Trump and other cabinet members are safe. A suspect was arrested.
US President Donald Trump, his wife Melania Trump and members of the US government were forced to evacuate under security measures during the White House’s traditional dinner for correspondents and journalists. Shortly after the evening began, shots were heard near the hotel’s security checkpoint.
A US Secret Service agent was shot, but a bulletproof vest saved his life, Trump said at a White House press conference. “I just talked to the officer and he’s fine,” he said.
The published videos showed chaotic scenes. Immediately after the shooting, shouts like “Shots!” were heard. and “Lie on the ground!”. The guests tried to hide under the tables in a panic.
The suspected perpetrator had several weapons
Donald Trump published on his social platform Truth Social a video in which the incident is said to be seen. It shows a man running past security forces, firing a gun. In another photo, also published by the American president, it is seen how the man is lying on the floor of the hotel with handcuffs.
According to Police Chief Jeffrey W. Carroll, the suspected perpetrator was carrying a shotgun, a handgun and several knives. Trump believes that it is highly likely that it is a single author. During the press conference about two hours after the event, he described the suspect as a “failed murderer”.
The president said he did not know if he was the target of the attack, adding that he was relatively far from the scene of the incident. The motive of the perpetrator, who according to the media is suspected to be from California, is still unclear.
