Correspondents' dinner guests hide during the shooting. Photo:REUTERS/Evan Vucci
According to the United States Secret Service and law enforcement, an armed man attempted to breach the checkpoint and opened fire. One security officer was injured, but the bullet was stopped by a protective vest and his life is not in danger.
“Lone Wolf”
According to The Guardian, authorities identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Thomas Allen of California. He was apprehended at the scene and is expected to stand trial on charges including assault on a federal officer and use of a firearm in the commission of a violent felony.
According to preliminary reports, the attacker acted alone. President Trump characterized him as a “lone wolf.”
The motives for the attack remain undetermined.
Eyewitnesses reported panic among hundreds of guests – journalists, politicians and public figures – many of whom took cover under tables while security agents responded to the threat.
The shooting occurred near the security screening area before entering the hall. The suspect was armed with several weapons, including firearms and knives.
The Secret Service quickly escorted the president and other officials to safety.
Security in question
President Trump said that “security services acted quickly and professionally” and confirmed that all key participants in the event were safe.
Federal and local agencies continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities are not reporting any other suspects.
Note that the White House Correspondents’ Dinner is one of the key annual events in Washington, D.C., bringing together members of the press and political establishment. The incident was a major security breach and raised new questions about the protection of high-profile events in the US.
