On April 25, gunfire erupted at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C. The attempted assassination took place as President Donald Trump, members of his administration, journalists and celebrities were attending the event in the Washington Hilton Hotel. Secret Service agents quickly rushed Trump and other officials to safety while guests ducked under tables and security officers locked down the hotel.
According to Fox News, the suspect is a 31 year-old from Torrance, California. Federal investigators said the suspect traveled across the country carrying multiple weapons, including a shotgun, handgun and knives, before checking into the hotel, days before the event. Prosecutors allege he attempted to force his way through a security checkpoint and open fired at a Secret Service agent who remained uninjured due to a bulletproof vest. No civilians were harmed during the event.
Federal investigators and the Justice Department charged the suspect with attempted assassination of the president, assault on a federal officer with a deadly weapon, unlawful discharge of a firearm during a violent crime and illegally transporting firearms across state lines. Officials stated that surveillance footage and evidence recovered from the suspect’s hotel room suggest the attack was planned in advance. Investigators are still working to determine a motive, though authorities believe the suspect acted alone. The suspect remains in federal custody and could face life in prison if convicted.
The dinner abruptly ended, and White House Correspondents believed it would be best to reschedule. Although there is no official new date, organizers are working to find smaller and more secure venues.
