Trump Releases Security Breach Footage, Shooter’s Photos
Washington DC: US President Donald Trump on Saturday (local time) shared CCTV footage showing a shooter entering the White House Correspondents’ Dinner venue and images of the detained suspect. In a post on Truth Social, Trump addressed the security breach, stating that a gunman attempted to break into the building and was then neutralized by security personnel.
Addressing the press in the briefing room after the incident, Trump said that he spoke with the security guard who was shot during the attack. “A man attacked a security checkpoint armed with multiple weapons and was taken down by some very brave members of the Secret Service… An officer was shot but was rescued… the vest did the job. I just spoke to the officer and he’s in very good shape,” he said.
Trump also used the event to highlight the need for improved security infrastructure and highlighted the ballroom he plans to build at the White House. He said the proposed structure would provide a safer venue for such events. “It’s not a particularly secure building… So we need to have all the hallmarks of what we’re planning in the White House. A larger, much more secure, drone-proof room with bulletproof glass,” he added.
The US President praised the quick response of the Secret Service and law enforcement confirming the suspect’s capture. In another Truth Social post, he said: “We did a pretty good job at DC Secret Service and Law Enforcement… The attacker was arrested and I advised ‘LET THE SHOW CONTINUE’, but we will be guided by law enforcement.” He added that the final decision on whether the event will continue or not will be made by the authorities.
This isn’t the first time Trump has been targeted. In July 2024, he was shot at during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, and was escorted offstage by Secret Service agents after suffering an ear injury.
ANI Reporter Reena Bhardwaj, who was present at the dinner, described the tense moments that took place in the ballroom. Chaos broke out after a loud noise was heard, initially mistaken for the sound of plates, he said. Panic spread within seconds as staff ran for cover. Guests, including Bhardwaj, took shelter under tables before security personnel secured the area.
He added that Trump was quickly ushered out, followed by members of his Cabinet, including Scott Bessent, Kash Patel, Pete Hegseth and Witkoff. Security agents armed with long guns were seen on the scene as the situation unfolded.
Chaos broke out Saturday evening after suspicious gunshots were reported in the lobby of the Washington Hilton, leading to the evacuation of Trump and other senior officials from the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Trump, First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance were carried to safety by tactical teams.
