ISLAMABAD April 26, 2026 – Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday expressed deep shock over a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) Dinner, while voicing relief that U.S. President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and other attendees escaped unharmed.
The incident occurred late on April 25, 2026, at the Washington Hilton hotel in Washington, D.C., where the annual WHCA Dinner was underway. According to reports, 31-year-old suspect Cole Thomas Allen from Torrance, California, charged a Secret Service checkpoint armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and knives. Gunfire was exchanged, and one Secret Service agent was reportedly struck but saved by a protective vest. The suspect was apprehended at the scene and taken into custody. Authorities have described him as a lone actor, with no other suspects being sought.
President Trump and the First Lady were briefly evacuated for safety but were confirmed unharmed, along with other high-profile attendees. No serious injuries were reported among protectees or guests. Trump later addressed the media in a press conference and released CCTV footage of the incident.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wrote:
“Deeply shocked by the disturbing shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner in Washington, D.C., a short while ago. Relieved to know that President Trump, the First Lady, and other attendees are safe. My thoughts and prayers are with him, and I wish him continued safety and well-being.”
The Pakistani leader tagged President Trump’s official account, the White House, and the POTUS handle in the message, reflecting standard diplomatic protocol between the two nations.
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner is a major annual event in Washington that brings together journalists, politicians, and celebrities. This year’s gathering was overshadowed by the security breach, prompting immediate investigations into checkpoint protocols.
No further details on the suspect’s motive have been released as of this reporting. The Secret Service and federal authorities continue to investigate the case.
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