A tense night in Washington, D.C., unfolded rapidly before authorities brought a suspect into custody following a security scare tied to the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
According to Fox News, President Donald Trump confirmed the development, commending the quick reaction from federal agents and local law enforcement as details emerged about the incident.
“Quite an evening in D.C. Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“The shooter has been apprehended, and I have recommended that we ‘LET THE SHOW GO ON,’ but will entirely be guided by Law Enforcement,” he added.
According to initial reports, the situation escalated when a gunman entered the Washington Hilton, the venue hosting the high-profile dinner. The suspect reportedly bypassed a magnetometer before opening fire.
A Secret Service agent was struck in the vest during the chaos but did not suffer serious injuries, and officials confirmed the agent is expected to be okay.
Authorities quickly moved in and detained the suspect. The individual’s identity has not yet been released.
Trump indicated that a decision on whether the event would continue as planned was still pending, emphasizing that law enforcement officials would ultimately determine the next steps.
The location itself carries historical weight. The Washington Hilton is sometimes referred to as the “Hinckley Hilton,” a reference to the 1981 assassination attempt on Ronald Reagan.
During that incident, gunman John Hinckley Jr. fired multiple shots as Reagan exited the hotel. One bullet ricocheted off the presidential limousine and struck the president in the chest, seriously injuring him.
Three others were also wounded, including Press Secretary James Brady, a police officer, and a Secret Service agent.
Reagan was rushed to George Washington University Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery and survived. Hinckley was later found not guilty by reason of insanity.
The latest incident brought renewed attention to security at one of Washington’s most prominent annual gatherings, as officials worked to assess the situation and ensure the safety of attendees.
