Trump rushed off stage as armed man attacks White House

‎United States President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were abruptly evacuated on Saturday night after gunfire erupted near the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C.

‎The incident occurred at the venue’s main security screening area when a man armed with a shotgun attempted to breach security and opened fire, according to officials.

‎A United States Secret Service agent was struck but escaped injury due to protective gear.

‎Security operatives swiftly removed the president, first lady, and other senior officials from the hall as panic spread among the roughly 2,600 attendees.

‎Guests reportedly dove for cover under tables while agents secured the area.

‎Among those forced to the ground by security were senior cabinet members, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.

‎Authorities confirmed that the suspect was quickly apprehended, and no government officials were harmed.

‎In a post on Truth Social shortly after the incident, Trump praised law enforcement, stating that all top officials, including the vice president and cabinet members, were “in perfect condition.”

‎“Shooter had been apprehended.”

‎“Quite an evening in D.C. Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job,” Trump added

‎The suspected shooter, who was reportedly wielding multiple weapons, is now in custody after he was apprehended on the scene “by very brave soldiers” of the secret service, Trump said.

‎Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, has been identified as the suspect and he will be charged in court on Monday.

‎Allen was reportedly a guest at the hotel and worked as a part-time teacher in California.

‎Trump also shared images appearing to show a shirtless man lying face down in the foyer with his hands restrained behind his back, believed to be the suspected gunman.

‎Describing the suspect as a “would-be assassin,” Trump said the individual was heavily armed and had breached a key security checkpoint before being stopped

‎He also announced plans to address the nation at a press conference later that night.

‎The event was subsequently cancelled, with Trump expressing hope it could be rescheduled within 30 days.

‎In July 2024, Trump, who was campaigning for his second presidency, was rushed off the stage at a rally in Pennsylvania after a gunman fired a volley of shots into the crowd.

‎Trump was injured in one ear in that incident.

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