Trump shares first image of White House shooting suspect, shows man pinned down by armed officers

US President Donald Trump on Sunday released what was the first image of the 31-year-old suspect involved in the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting scare, posting the photograph on his social media platform, Truth Social.

The image shows a shirtless man lying face down on a carpeted floor, his hands restrained behind his back, as multiple heavily armed security personnel stand over him.

White House shooting: Donald Trump stumbles as armed threat triggers security lockdown during Correspondent's Dinner

At least three officers in tactical gear are visible in the frame, maintaining control of the suspect in what appears to be an indoor area of the Washington Hilton, where the high-profile event was being held.

Suspect subdued after gunfire scare

The release of the photograph comes hours after a gun scare triggered panic at the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington. According to officials cited by international media, the suspect allegedly attempted to breach security with a shotgun and fired at a Secret Service agent near the screening area.

The agent, protected by gear, was not injured. The suspect was quickly overpowered, taken into custody, and removed from the scene.

Inside the ballroom, chaos erupted as attendees reacted to the sound of gunfire, with guests ducking for cover while security personnel rushed in and initiated emergency protocols.

Also read: Shotgun, Handgun, knives: All you should know about gunman at the White House press dinner for Trump

Trump praises response, event cancelled

Trump, who was present at the event along with First Lady Melania Trump, was swiftly evacuated by Secret Service agents. Vice President JD Vance and other senior officials were also secured, with all reported safe.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said a “shooter had been apprehended” and praised the Secret Service and law enforcement for acting “quickly and bravely.” He added that he had initially suggested continuing the event, though authorities ultimately called it off.

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner, one of Washington’s most prominent annual gatherings, was cancelled for the night following the incident. Investigations into the shooting near the venue’s entrance remain ongoing.