White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the shooting incident that disrupted the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, D.C., describing the situation as a serious act of political violence. The event, held at the Washington Hilton, was intended to be a lighthearted evening featuring remarks from President Donald Trump, but quickly turned into a security emergency.

In a statement shared on social media, Leavitt said the gathering was interrupted by an individual who attempted to target the president and others in attendance. She noted that she was backstage with the president and the First Lady when Secret Service agents swiftly moved them to safety. According to her account, Trump remained composed throughout the situation and later emphasized the need to end political violence in the country.

Leavitt also expressed gratitude toward law enforcement officials, highlighting the actions of a Secret Service agent who was injured while responding to the threat. The agent reportedly sustained a gunshot wound but continued efforts to neutralize the suspect. Authorities have not released additional medical details regarding the agent’s condition.

The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old from Torrance, California, was taken into custody at the scene. Officials confirmed that he was armed with both a rifle and a handgun at the time of arrest. Records indicate that he had legally purchased firearms in recent years and had no prior criminal record or known history of law enforcement concerns.

Investigators reported that Allen had an academic background from the California Institute of Technology and previously worked as a mechanical engineer before transitioning into independent video game development. He was also engaged in part-time teaching for students preparing for college admissions. Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack while maintaining heightened security measures.