What we know about gunfire at White House correspondents’ dinner

On Saturday evening, US President Donald Trump was removed from the White House Correspondents’ Dinner after a shooting occurred near a security checkpoint at the event in Washington, DC. The suspect, 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen, was taken into custody following the incident. Authorities reported that he was armed with several weapons and appeared to act alone. A federal agent was wounded during the exchange of fire but remained unharmed due to a bullet-proof vest.

The annual gathering, attended by over 2,000 people, including senior politicians, journalists, and public figures, took place at the Washington Hilton hotel. Trump addressed attendees from the White House after the attack, stating,

“It’s always shocking when this happens, that never changes.”

He added,

“When you are impactful they go after you, when you are not impactful they leave you alone. It’s a dangerous profession.”

CCTV footage shared by Trump on Truth Social showed a man sprinting past security officers, who then pursued him. Police confirmed that security personnel and the suspect engaged in a brief gunfight. CBS cited law enforcement sources, indicating between five and eight shots were fired. The Secret Service agent who was struck during the exchange has since been discharged from the hospital.

Inside the ballroom, Trump and the first lady were seated on stage when loud gunshots echoed through the venue. The couple noticed the commotion and were swiftly escorted off the stage by security, while others took cover under tables. Several agents ran to the stage, armed and vigilant, as guests scrambled for safety. BBC reporters present described the scene as one of chaos and uncertainty.

Later, Trump posted a close-up image of the detained gunman, shirtless and cuffed, surrounded by Secret Service personnel. He described the suspect as a “lone-wolf whack job” and commended law enforcement for their quick action. The president also highlighted the event’s historical significance, noting that it is a longstanding American press tradition dating back to 1921, traditionally attended by the current president.

Speaking from the White House shortly after the incident, Trump mentioned that the suspect had been “taken into custody” after charging security with a “powerful weapon.” He claimed the agent was shot at close range but was “in very high spirits” following the injury. Trump emphasized the unity of the room, calling it “totally unified” and filled with “love and coming together.” He also referenced two prior attempts on his life, one at a Pennsylvania rally in July 2024 and another while golfing in Florida in September 2024.

Trump later thanked the media for their coverage, stating they were “very responsible” in reporting the events. In his first interview on Sunday, he described the alleged gunman as having “hatred in his heart” and being “strongly anti-Christian.” He reflected on the dangers of his role, saying,

“If you’re a consequential president you’re in much more danger than if you’re not a consequential president.”

Despite the protocol requiring him to leave, Trump expressed a desire to continue the event, stating,

“I have recommended that we ‘LET THE SHOW GO ON’ but, will entirely be guided by Law Enforcement.”