Donald Trump was hurried out of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton after gunshots suddenly rang out inside the packed ballroom on Saturday night.
The unexpected sound of gunfire threw the hall into chaos, with guests scrambling for safety as many ducked beneath tables while others rushed for cover.
The president disclosed that a Secret Service operative was hit at close range during the incident but survived thanks to a protective vest.
Security forces quickly moved in, locking down the venue as hundreds of attendees remained inside for nearly an hour before the situation was brought under control.
The suspected gunman, said to be carrying multiple weapons, was apprehended at the scene by Secret Service officers. Authorities later identified him as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California.
Reports indicate he had been staying at the hotel and works as a part-time teacher in California. He is expected to be formally charged in court on Monday.
🚨 BREAKING UPDATE: President Trump has been SAFELY EVACUATED from the White House Correspondents Dinner, per sources
You can hear shots ring out in this video
A shooter opened fire in the LOBBY — the shooter is DEAD
This is absolutely INSANE
LEFTIST VIOLENCE MUST END! pic.twitter.com/GB1eUXN8kx
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) April 26, 2026
