A shooting incident at the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, D.C. has raised serious security concerns after officials said Donald Trump was likely the target.
The attack took place at the Washington Hilton hotel, where the high-profile event gathered government officials, journalists, and public figures. According to U.S. authorities, a suspect armed with a shotgun fired at a Secret Service agent stationed at a security checkpoint. The agent survived the attack because of a bulletproof vest and later left the hospital in stable condition.
Officials quickly tackled and arrested the suspect, identified as a 31-year-old man from California. Law enforcement said he carried multiple weapons, including a handgun and knives. Investigators believe he acted alone and described him as a possible “lone wolf” attacker.
During the incident, security teams rushed Trump and other officials out of the ballroom. Witnesses reported panic and chaos as attendees ducked under tables while armed personnel secured the area. Despite the danger, no guests suffered injuries.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said early evidence suggests the suspect intended to target members of the administration, “likely including the president.” Trump later confirmed that he believed he was the intended target. This marks the latest in a series of threats against him, following two previous assassination attempts since 2024.
Authorities have charged the suspect with assaulting a federal officer, using a firearm, and attempting to kill a federal officer. Investigators continue to review surveillance footage and examine how the suspect managed to bring weapons into a heavily guarded venue.
