CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer recounted a terrifying ordeal after gunfire erupted near the main ballroom during the White House Correspondents' Dinner. The incident occurred at the Hilton Hotel, prompting a swift response from federal law enforcement and resulting in one arrest and one injured officer.
Incident Details and Witness Account
Blitzer was near the men's restroom on an upper floor when the shooting began. He described the event as sudden and frightening:
- He heard loud, scary gunshots immediately near his location.
- He was quickly thrown to the ground by responding police officers.
- Blitzer stated the gunman was only “a few feet away” when the gunfire started.
He expressed uncertainty regarding the shooter's target, noting, “I had no idea... who this shooter was aiming at, or if he was just trying to scare everybody.”
Law Enforcement Response
The US Secret Service confirmed that one individual was taken into custody following the shooting near the screening area.
- Witness accounts indicated that officers managed to subdue the gunman, who continued firing even after being thrown to the ground.
- A Secret Service officer sustained a gunshot wound; the bullet struck protective gear, and the officer was transported to a local hospital.
Impact on Dignitaries and Event Status
President Donald Trump and members of his Cabinet, including Vice President JD Vance, were present at the event. Upon the shooting, they were swiftly escorted offstage and from the venue.
- President Trump later posted on Truth Social, praising the response: “Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended.”
- Although initially hoping the event would continue, Trump returned to the White House at the request of law enforcement.
- The White House Correspondents' Dinner has been scheduled to be rescheduled.
