Federal prosecutors released video on Thursday documenting the moment an armed man attempted to breach security at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, allegedly with the intent to harm US President Donald Trump.
Footage Details Security Breach
The nearly six-minute video, posted to social media by US attorney for Washington, Jeanine Pirro, shows a sequence of events beginning with federal officers dismantling metal detectors at a security checkpoint. The suspect then appears, running through the checkpoint with a long gun in his hands. According to Secret Service Director Sean Curran, the agent was shot at “point-blank range” by the suspect.
The footage shows the suspect pointing his weapon toward an agent while running through the checkpoint. It was not immediately clear from the video if a shot was fired at that moment. Authorities state the agent returned fire, discharging his weapon five times.
Denials of Friendly Fire
Initial speculation suggested a Secret Service officer may have been struck by friendly fire during the incident. However, US Attorney Pirro stated, “There is no evidence the shooting was the result of friendly fire.” This statement followed an earlier claim by prosecutors that an agent had been shot in a bullet-resistant vest, without confirming the source of the bullet.
Both President Trump and Secret Service Director Curran denied reports of friendly fire. Trump stated, “They said it wasn’t friendly fire. It wasn’t us,” while speaking to reporters in the Oval Office. News agency Reuters, citing a US law enforcement official, reported that an investigation concluded the agent was not hit by friendly fire.
Suspect in Custody
The 31-year-old suspect was apprehended following a scuffle with security guards, though this portion of the event was not captured in the released video. He has been charged with attempted assassination of the US president and faces a potential life sentence if convicted. The suspect agreed to remain in custody as his case proceeds, and his attorney, Tezira Abe, indicated he would not immediately contest arguments that he poses a danger to the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner?
An armed man attempted to breach security at the dinner, allegedly with the intent to harm President Trump. A Secret Service agent was shot at “point-blank range” and returned fire, though the suspect was not struck.
Was the Secret Service agent shot by friendly fire?
According to US Attorney Jeanine Pirro, there is no evidence the shooting was the result of friendly fire. This was corroborated by President Trump, Secret Service Director Sean Curran, and a report from Reuters citing a US law enforcement official.
What is the current status of the suspect?
The 31-year-old suspect is in custody and has been charged with attempted assassination of the US president. He has agreed to remain in custody while his case moves forward.
As the investigation continues, what level of security will be implemented at future public events involving the President?
