Shock and intense concern has been caused by a new attempted attack on US President Donald Trump during a correspondents’ dinner at the Washington Hilton.
According to witnesses, the gunman was immobilized at the last moment by security forces, preventing the worst from happening. Journalists at the scene described scenes of panic and chaos.
Daily Mail correspondent Nick Allen said the first sounds resembled “the quiet popping of champagne corks” until it was realised it was gunfire.
As he described, bystanders rushed to take cover under tables as panic ensued, with glasses breaking, chairs tipping over and bottles rolling across the floor. For a few minutes there was complete silence, with those present waiting for a possible continuation of the shooting.
At the same time, armed agents entered the room, controlling the space, while the US president was immediately removed by Secret Service men in what was described as a particularly intense operation.
According to the testimony, the atmosphere remained charged, with attendees even hesitating to use their cell phones for fear of being misunderstood by security forces.
The incident has sparked a strong reaction and is expected to open up debate about security protocols at high-profile events in the United States.
