April 26, 2026 | 10:08 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President of the United States (US) Donald Trump held a late-night press conference after a shooting incident forced the evacuation of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington DC on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
According to CBS News report, gunshots were heard shortly after 8:30 p.m. local time outside the Washington Hilton ballroom, where Trump had been preparing to deliver remarks. Secret Service agents immediately escorted Trump and First Lady Melania Trump off the stage as panic spread among attendees.
Hundreds of guests ducked under tables after hearing what witnesses described as five to eight gunshots. Some attendees shouted warnings, while others began chanting “God Bless America” as security forces secured the area. Trump briefly stumbled while being escorted but was quickly assisted by agents.
Shortly after being evacuated, Trump addressed the public from the White House, confirming that he was unharmed and that key officials were safe. He said one Secret Service agent had been struck by a bullet but was protected by a bulletproof vest.
“The vest did the job,” Trump said as quoted by PBS, adding that he had spoken directly with the agent, who remained in good condition.
In his press conference, Trump condemned the attack and praised the swift response of security personnel. He also stated that he had ordered the release of footage showing the incident and the response by law enforcement, describing the attacker as someone who had “attacked the Constitution.”
Authorities confirmed that a suspect was in custody and hospitalized. Two sources cited by CBS News said the individual was armed with both a shotgun and a handgun. A law enforcement official also confirmed that a shooter had opened fire, though further details about the motive were not immediately available.
DW reported that Trump confirmed the capture of the shooter and the man is believed to be from California, adding law enforcement officials have "gone to his apartment."
Trump said the shooter was a "lone wolf," with the president saying he believes the incident is not linked to the US-Israel war with Iran.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, also on the podium with Trump during the press briefing, said the investigation was "ongoing" and that he expects charges to be "filed shortly."
FBI Director Kash Patel said during his remarks that his agency was "conducting witness interviews as we speak."
Trump also said that he initially wanted the dinner event to continue but ultimately agreed to cancel it following recommendations from law enforcement. He added that the dinner would be rescheduled within the next 30 days.
“This was an event dedicated to freedom of speech,” Trump said during the press conference as quoted by the CBS News, noting that despite the incident, the situation brought a sense of unity among those present.
Security remained tight around the hotel following the incident, with helicopters circling overhead and law enforcement flooding the area. Authorities continue to investigate the shooting.
Read: Trump Escorted Out After Shots at White House Correspondents' Dinner
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