Washington, United States. Donald Trump told reporters that attackers target “big names” who have made the “biggest impact” after a shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner led to the president being escorted to safety.
Suspect identified and charges expected
The suspect was identified by US media as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, and was reported to have targeted Trump administration officials. The motive remains officially unknown, and Allen is expected to be formally charged in court on two counts on Monday.
President escorted from event
Trump said he “fought like hell” to remain at the event after shots were fired but eventually followed security advice to return to the White House. He later shared an image on social media showing a shirtless man, identified as the shooter, lying on the ground after being detained by security forces.
Security concerns raised at venue
Questions about possible security failures at the Washington Hilton intensified following the incident. BBC correspondent Gary O’Donoghue, who said he was present, reported that his identification was not checked upon entry.
Annual gathering overshadowed
The shooting overshadowed the annual dinner, which traditionally brings together the US president, high-ranking officials, and the Washington press corps.
What questions do you have about the reported security procedures at the Washington Hilton?