Suspect Arrested for Shooting at Donald Trump’s Dinner; Injured Security Officer Under Treatment
Image source, realDonald Trump/ Truth Social
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A suspect has been arrested for opening fire during U.S. President Donald Trump’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
When gunshots were heard nearby during the dinner, security personnel quickly surrounded Trump and escorted him out of the hall.
The U.S. Secret Service has taken into custody an individual reportedly carrying multiple weapons, according to Trump.
President Trump released a photo of the arrested person on social media.
Speaking to journalists after the incident, Trump described politics as the most dangerous profession.
“I believe there is no profession more dangerous than this,” he said. “No country is immune from this threat.”
Officials identified the arrested individual as a 31-year-old man from California. Washington, D.C. police chief confirmed that the suspect was present at the hotel where the dinner was taking place.
Authorities stated that the suspect is expected to be presented in court on Monday.
Image source, Reuters
A Secret Service officer was wounded by a bullet at close range but survived because he was wearing a bulletproof vest, President Trump said at the White House. Security personnel have since arrived at the hospital where the officer is being treated.
Authorities are reviewing hotel surveillance footage to understand how the gunman managed to get so close.
According to Washington correspondent Daniel Bush, it was initially unclear what had occurred inside the large ballroom where the dinner was underway.
After gunshots were heard outside the nearby Hilton ballroom, attendees hid under tables. Subsequently, Trump was escorted out first, followed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, under heavy security.
Washington correspondents note that this may be the first time gunfire has occurred within the security perimeter of a U.S. presidential dinner.