Donald Trump was evacuated from the White House correspondents' dinner after an accused gunman attempted to storm the ballroom armed with guns and knives. Terrifying images from late Saturday night revealed how the annual event began normally before gunshots were heard.
Panic Erupts at Annual Event
Around 2,500 guests, including journalists and senior US politicians, were forced to hide under tables as panic ensued. Donald and Melania Trump were quickly rushed out of the venue, and the President was not injured in the attack. Vice President JD Vance and other top politicians in attendance were also rushed to safety.
Suspect Identified and Detained
Cole Tomas Allen, 31, from Torrance, California, was named as the suspect and detained at the hotel. Officials who examined his electronic devices and writings preliminarily believe he intended to target administration members at the dinner. Acting US attorney general Todd Blanche stated that the man is believed to have travelled by train from California and was checked in at the Washington Hilton hotel. Allen is expected to appear in court on Monday.
Shocking images from the scene showed guests diving for cover, armed Secret Service agents storming the stage, and the suspect being pinned down by law enforcement. The President later shared a picture of the suspect on social media, labelling him a 'would-be assassin.'
