Washington: A dramatic security scare unfolded in the US capital after a man armed with a shotgun opened fire near a high-profile gathering attended by President Donald Trump and senior administration officials, triggering panic and a swift security response.
The incident took place at the Washington Hilton, where the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner was underway.
According to authorities, the suspect approached a security checkpoint and fired at a Secret Service agent before being overpowered and arrested.
Build the White House Ballroom. pic.twitter.com/3CBVZtf4cK
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 26, 2026
The officer, protected by a bulletproof vest, survived the attack and has since been discharged from the hospital.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said that the early findings suggest the attacker may have intended to target members of the administration, possibly including the president.
.@DAGToddBlanche: “I expect you will see charges filed shortly. The charges should be self-evident, given the conduct, but as you’ll hear, there will be multiple charges surrounding the shooting around the possession of firearms and anything else that we can get on this guy.” pic.twitter.com/95Pa9DOCtx
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) April 26, 2026
Investigators believe the suspect traveled across multiple cities before arriving in Washington, raising questions about planning and intent.
The president and First Lady Melania Trump were quickly escorted out of the venue as security teams secured the area. Vice President JD Vance and cabinet members were also moved to safety amid scenes of confusion inside the ballroom.
Police identified the suspect as a 31-year-old California resident. He was reportedly carrying multiple weapons, including a handgun and knives.
The chaos briefly brought the event to a halt as attendees, many in formal evening wear, took cover under tables while armed personnel moved in. Despite the panic, no guests were injured.
“A man charged a security checkpoint armed with multiple weapons, and he was taken down by some very brave members of Secret Service.” – President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/N3UTveVNFM
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 26, 2026
World leaders quickly condemned the attack, stressing the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions. Mark Rutte described the incident as an assault on open societies.
The episode has once again spotlighted concerns over the security of top US officials, particularly at public events. It also echoes past incidents, including an assassination attempt on Trump in 2024, underscoring a period of heightened political tension in the country.
