Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed his relief following an alleged shooting incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner in Washington, stating he is 'pleased' that US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are safe.
Incident at the Dinner
Guests had just taken their seats at the event on Saturday evening local time when Secret Service agents rushed into the ballroom, shouting for attendees to 'get down'. President Trump, his wife, and senior cabinet members were quickly escorted out of the venue. At one point, the president stumbled briefly, appearing to trip, before being helped up and led away.
Among those in attendance were Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, all of whom were safely removed from the venue.
Albanese's Statement
Following the incident, Albanese issued a statement on Sunday, sharing his relief that no one was harmed. 'I am pleased to hear the President and the First Lady, along with all attendees at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, are safe,' Albanese said. 'We applaud the work of the Secret Service and law enforcement agencies for their swift action.'
Trump's Response
Later, President Trump appeared in the White House Press Briefing Room to address reporters. 'That was very unexpected, but incredibly acted upon by Secret Service and law enforcement,' Trump said. 'It was in one way, very beautiful, a very beautiful thing to see. A man charged a security checkpoint armed with multiple weapons, and he was taken down by some very brave members of Secret Service. And they acted very quickly.'
Suspect Details
US authorities have identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of California. Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for Washington, stated that Allen faces two counts of using a firearm during a crime of violence and one count of assaulting a federal officer with a dangerous weapon. Pirro confirmed the suspect is scheduled for arraignment in federal court on Monday and indicated additional charges are likely. 'There will be many more charges based upon the information that we are learning in this very fluid situation,' she said.
Authorities reported no additional injuries beyond a Secret Service agent who was shot but partially protected by a bulletproof vest.
Security Response
Outside, the response intensified rapidly. Law enforcement and Secret Service personnel flooded the area, while National Guard members took up positions inside the building. Guests were allowed to leave but were prevented from re-entering as security teams swept the premises.
Shortly after being evacuated, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform, praising the response: 'Quite an evening in D.C. Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended, and I have recommended that we 'LET THE SHOW GO ON' but, will entirely be guided by Law Enforcement.'
Organisers initially considered resuming the dinner but ultimately decided to cancel the event.
