Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Apr 27: A security scare disrupted the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., after gunfire broke out late Saturday at a hotel hosting more than 2,500 guests, including senior US officials and members of the press.
US President Donald Trump said he was “not worried” during the incident, describing his reaction as calm even as security forces moved quickly to evacuate attendees. Speaking later in an interview with 60 Minutes, Trump said, “I wasn’t worried. I understand life. We live in a crazy world.”
According to officials, the suspect—identified as a 31-year-old man—breached security and opened fire before being subdued by law enforcement. Investigators said he had reportedly sent a manifesto to family members shortly before the attack, indicating he was targeting administration officials. Authorities are examining his background, online activity, and writings to determine motive.
Trump described the suspect as “radicalized” and suggested he had serious mental health concerns, while also noting that the individual’s family had expressed worry about his behaviour. At the same time, he remarked that the attacker was able to exploit vulnerabilities despite ultimately being apprehended.
Eyewitnesses reported panic inside the venue as guests dropped to the floor after hearing what sounded like gunshots. Security personnel from the United States Secret Service immediately moved to evacuate the president and other officials.
Trump recalled the moment, saying he initially tried to understand what was happening before following instructions to take cover. “They said, ‘Please go down.’ So I dropped to the floor. So did the first lady,” he said, adding that his wife appeared visibly shaken but handled the situation calmly.
Despite the disruption, Trump praised the rapid response by security agencies, saying officers acted “professionally” and neutralised the threat quickly. He also expressed a desire for the event to continue or be rescheduled, arguing that such incidents should not allow “a crazy person” to disrupt public gatherings.
He returned to the White House within hours of the incident and later described a sense of unity among those present after the situation was brought under control. Officials confirmed that no one was killed or injured, including a Secret Service agent who was present at the scene.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to review evidence related to the suspect’s motive and planning.