A security scare in Washington saw Secret Service officers engage an armed suspect near the White House, briefly halting activity as authorities moved swiftly to contain the situation.
Security personnel swiftly evacuated Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump from the stage as guests scrambled for cover under tables. The suspect was overpowered and taken into custody at the scene. Officials said he is believed to have acted alone, though investigations into his motive are ongoing.
Authorities said the investigation, spanning the FBI, Secret Service, Department of Homeland Security and local police, has moved into an intensive phase, combining forensic analysis, surveillance review and rapid charge-building, as officials signal a zero-tolerance approach to the attack.
Trump used the moment to project confidence in the country’s security apparatus, declaring that the swift response to the incident demonstrated the strength of American security systems.
Reacting swiftly after reports of gunfire disrupted the high-profile gathering, Modi expressed relief that US President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and other senior leaders were safe following the security scare.
According to the President, the assailant attempted to force entry into the venue with multiple weapons before being apprehended by security personnel.
Trump, First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President JD Vance were rushed out of the ballroom by tactical teams and taken to a secure location. Other senior officials, including members of the Cabinet and FBI Director Kash Patel, were also confirmed safe.
The CIA confirmed that the 29-year-old suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is an Afghan national who worked with a US-supported military unit during the war in Afghanistan.
