Performer describes locking eyes with Trump as they ducked for cover during shooting

April 27, 2026

A shooting incident occurred at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner on Saturday night at the Washington Hilton hotel in Washington DC. Mentalist performer Oz Pearlman was in the middle of performing for President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt when gunfire erupted, causing Secret Service agents to force everyone to the ground for protection. Pearlman described the terrifying moments when he found himself face-to-face with the president on the floor, both fearing for their lives as shots rang out nearby.

Who is affected

President Donald Trump
First Lady Melania Trump
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt
Performer Oz Pearlman
Secret Service agents
White House Correspondents' Association dinner attendees
Cole Tomas Allen (the suspected gunman)

What action is being taken

No explicit ongoing actions are described in the article. The arrest and detention have already been completed.

Why it matters

This incident represents a serious security breach at a high-profile Washington DC event attended by the President and other senior government officials. The shooting demonstrates ongoing threats against political leaders and raises questions about security protocols at major gatherings. The attack could also impact future presidential appearances at public events and the traditional White House Correspondents' dinner format.

What's next

Cole Tomas Allen will be formally charged at a hearing in Washington on Monday.

Read full article from source: BBC