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Trump Vows to Continue Duties After Shooting Disrupts Correspondents’ Dinner

Trump said a Secret Service agent was shot at close range but survived thanks to a bulletproof vest, adding that the agent was in good condition and that video of the incident would be released to highlight law enforcement’s professionalism.

By Oliver Wang

April 26, 2026
4:51 am
Los Angeles, CA

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump said he will not be deterred by violence after a gunman attempted to breach security during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on April 25, 2026, prompting a swift evacuation and a major law enforcement response. The incident occurred at the Washington Hilton, where hundreds of journalists, government officials, and public figures had gathered for the annual event. Authorities said the suspect approached a secured checkpoint armed with a shotgun, handgun, and multiple knives before being intercepted by officers. Members of the United States Secret Service and local police engaged the individual within seconds, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire. A uniformed Secret Service officer was struck but protected by a bulletproof vest and is expected to recover. Officials confirmed there were no

The incident occurred at the Washington Hilton, where hundreds of journalists, government officials, and public figures had gathered for the annual event. Authorities said the suspect approached a secured checkpoint armed with a shotgun, handgun, and multiple knives before being intercepted by officers.

Members of the United States Secret Service and local police engaged the individual within seconds, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire. A uniformed Secret Service officer was struck but protected by a bulletproof vest and is expected to recover. Officials confirmed there were no civilian injuries.

Trump, who was inside the venue at the time, was quickly escorted to safety. He later described the moment as sudden and initially confusing. “I heard a noise and thought it was something minor,” he said, adding that it became clear within moments that it was gunfire. He praised law enforcement, calling their response “very impressive.”

Authorities said the suspect was subdued, taken into custody, and transported to a hospital for evaluation. Investigators believe the individual acted alone, though the inquiry remains ongoing.

Jeanine Pirro said the suspect appeared intent on causing mass harm and warned the outcome could have been far worse without the existing security measures. “It was clear where this defendant was going,” she said.

Jeffery Carroll emphasized that the multilayered security system functioned as designed, stopping the attacker before he could reach the ballroom where Trump and other high-profile guests were gathered.

The suspect faces multiple federal charges, including using a firearm during a violent crime and assaulting a federal officer, with additional charges expected.

Multiple agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, are investigating the suspect’s background, motives, and how the weapons were brought into the hotel. Early indications suggest the individual may have been staying at the property, raising questions about potential security gaps.

The White House Correspondents’ Association said the event will be rescheduled in the coming weeks.

Despite the attack, Trump made clear he does not intend to scale back public appearances or alter his leadership approach. “I’m here to do a job,” he said. “You can’t stop because of something like this.”

The shooting highlights ongoing security challenges surrounding major political events, while officials said the rapid response by law enforcement likely prevented a mass-casualty tragedy.