White House gun scare suspect carried ‘multiple weapons’: Trump

US President Donald Trump said the suspect behind the gun scare at the annual White House Press' Dinner was carrying “multiple weapons” and was quickly subdued by members of the presidential security detail.

Speaking to reporters at the White House press briefing room, Trump praised what he described as the “extremely brave” actions of security personnel who moved swiftly to neutralise the attacker and prevent further escalation.

The incident took Saturday night (April 25) at the Washington Hilton, where Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were attending the journalists' annual dinner—an event traditionally dedicated to press freedom and unity.

Gunfire triggered serious panic among attendees, prompting an immediate security response. Trump and the First Lady were evacuated from the venue as a precaution.

Describing the event, Trump said it was “meant to celebrate freedom of speech and bring people together,” adding that the situation was brought under control within minutes.

Authorities have since detained the suspect, and an investigation into the motive and circumstances surrounding the attack is ongoing.