Trump praises Secret Service after shooting incident, says attacks target ‘most influential people’

US President Donald Trump praised the Secret Service and law enforcement agencies following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Association reception, saying that assassination attempts “always happen to the most influential people”.

In a post on social media after the incident, Trump shared a photograph of the detained suspect and commended the swift response of security personnel.

“The Secret Service and law enforcement agencies did an excellent job. They acted quickly and courageously. The shooter was apprehended and I advised that ‘the show should go on’, though entirely under the supervision of law enforcement. They will make a decision soon. Regardless of that decision, the evening will not proceed as originally planned, and we will simply have to do it again,” Trump wrote.

Speaking to reporters later, Trump said he had studied the history of assassination attempts and argued that such attacks were directed at highly prominent figures.

“I have studied the history of assassination attempts, they always happen to the most influential people, such as Abraham Lincoln. Nobody attacks those who do nothing. We have done a lot,” Trump said.

The shooting occurred during the White House Correspondents’ Association reception in the United States, which was attended by Trump, the Vice President, and the Secretary of Defence. Following the gunfire, members of the US Cabinet were evacuated from the venue.

Secret Service agents detained the suspect at the scene. One member of the security detail was shot at close range, but a bulletproof vest prevented serious injury. The officer is reported to be in good condition.

According to media reports, the suspect has been identified as 31-year-old Cole Thomas Allen, described as a teacher and video game developer. He allegedly entered the hotel lobby armed with a firearm and knives, fired at a Secret Service agent, and then moved towards the banquet hall.

Reports indicate that the suspect was a guest at the Hilton Hotel and is expected to appear in court on Monday. Authorities believe he acted alone.

The motive for the attack remains unknown.