AL, GA leaders react after shooting at White House Correspondents Dinner; suspect in custody
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- Suspect arrested after firing shots at White House Correspondents Dinner; Secret Service agent injured but protected by vest.
- Alabama and Georgia leaders express relief that President Trump, First Lady, VP Vance, and guests escaped injury.
State leaders across Alabama and Georgia are responding after a shooting incident during the White House Correspondents Dinner in Washington, D.C., where authorities say a suspect is now in custody.
According to initial information, shots were fired around 8:40 p.m. when a 31-year-old suspect, identified as Cole Allen of California, allegedly rushed past officials while armed with multiple guns and knives. Law enforcement quickly intervened, taking the suspect into custody at the scene.
Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other cabinet members were escorted out by Secret Service agents. Officials confirmed all were unharmed.
A U.S. Secret Service agent was shot during the incident, but authorities say the agent’s bulletproof vest prevented any critical injuries.
In Alabama, Kay Ivey issued a statement saying, “God bless our President, First Lady and the men and women in law enforcement. Let us pray for our leaders each and every day.”
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed gratitude for the safety of those involved. “Marty, the girls and I are grateful that President Trump, First Lady Trump, Vice President Vance, cabinet members and all guests at the White House Correspondents Dinner tonight are safe,” Kemp said. He also praised the response of the injured agent, adding that those involved are in his family’s thoughts and prayers.
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall called the incident “unbelievable,” adding, “This cannot keep happening. Grateful the President and his team are safe tonight.”
Authorities say a large-scale, multi-agency investigation is now underway.
This remains a developing story. Stay with CNAW2News.com.
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