Terrifying moment Trump and Melania rushed to safety as shooting rocks dinner | World | News

US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania were quickly evacuated after shots were fired at the Correspondents’ Dinner. The terrifying moment was caught on video. The pair was rushed out along other officials inlcuding JD Vance.

Gunshots rang out during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton hotel in Washington DC on Saturday night. The annual event was being held at the Connecticut Avenue venue, with Mr Trump attending for the first time as president. Hundreds of journalists, media figures and government officials were also present.

At around 01:35 BST, a suspected gunman reportedly ran into the hotel foyer and attempted to get past security officers and metal detectors.

Loud bangs were heard inside the hotel, prompting security personnel to immediately escort the president and other senior officials from the venue.

Guests remained inside the ballroom for about an hour before it was later cleared.

Authorities said one of the shots struck a uniformed Secret Service officer at close range. The officer was wearing body armour, which saved him from more serious injury. He was taken to hospital and is said to be in good spirits.

The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from California, was arrested at the scene. Officials said he is expected to be charged with several offences, including using a firearm during a crime of violence.

Jeanine Pirro, US attorney for Washington, said the suspect is facing two counts for using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on federal officers using a dangerous weapon. She said he will be arraigned before a federal court on Monday.

Jeffery W. Carroll, interim chief of the Metropolitan Police Department, said the suspect was armed with a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives. He added that the suspect was not struck by gunfire and that it appears he acted alone. Police said there is no ongoing danger to the public.

Secret Service Director Sean Curran praised his agents’ response. He said: “We saw exactly what our brave men and women do each and every day to protect our protectees. It’s not easy, and I will tell you that they performed admirably.

“It’s very fortunate that the officer who was shot is alive, and he’s being observed,” Mr Curran added, thanking Mr Trump for reaching out.

Shortly before addressing reporters, Mr Trump shared CCTV footage appearing to show the suspect running past metal detectors as security officers drew their weapons. He also shared images of a man on the foyer floor with his hands behind his back.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Trump said: “I like not to think about it. I lead a pretty normal life considering, you know, it’s a dangerous life. I think I handle it as well as it can be handled.

“At first I wasn’t sure if the sound was a tray being dropped or a bullet. I was hoping it was a tray, but it wasn’t.

“I can’t imagine there are many professions that are more dangerous. I’m not a basket case. Really I take it as it is. I do it for the country. I’m not doing it for any other reason.”

Mr Trump also said he believed the suspect was acting alone, describing him as “a lone wolf whack job” and adding: “These are crazy people. These are crazy people, and they have to be dealt with.”

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner raises money for journalism students across the country and is one of Washington’s most high-profile annual events. The same hotel was the site of the 1981 shooting of President Ronald Reagan.