New Delhi — A gunfire scare at the Washington Hilton late Saturday forced the evacuation of President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump, Vice‑President J.D. Vance, several Cabinet members and hundreds of guests at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, officials said.
The incident occurred moments before the President was scheduled to speak to about 2,500 attendees. Authorities said a man attempted to breach a security checkpoint outside the ballroom and fired shots, triggering panic inside and around the venue. Guests sought cover under tables and rushed exits while United States Secret Service agents worked to secure the area.
Investigators identified the suspect as 31‑year‑old Cole Tomas Allen of California. Officials said he was armed with a shotgun, a handgun and knives. He was subdued within minutes and is in custody; authorities believe he acted alone. The FBI and other agencies are examining his background and motive and are investigating how he accessed a less secure section of the hotel before reaching the checkpoint.
A Secret Service agent was struck during the exchange but was wearing a bulletproof vest; the agent received treatment and is expected to recover. No fatalities were reported, and officials confirmed all dignitaries were unharmed.
President Trump praised the rapid response of security personnel, saying their actions likely prevented a worse outcome and calling the attacker a very sick person. On Truth Social, he reiterated his long‑standing call for a high‑security, on‑grounds ballroom at the White House — currently under construction — saying the episode would not have happened if such a facility were in place and criticizing legal challenges to the project.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hours after the incident, said he was relieved US leaders were safe, called violence unacceptable in a democracy and urged unequivocal condemnation of such acts, while wishing those involved continued safety.
The dinner was cancelled as authorities secured and searched the hotel. The episode has renewed concerns about the vulnerability of large political gatherings, prompting calls for tighter coordination and enhanced protective measures at high‑profile events.
