The night that started off as a celebration of journalists turned into a chaotic and disturbing night that many will remember for years to come. It all started when a gunfire broke out at the Washington Hilton hotel causing many to panic. 

Around 8:36pm, suspect Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrence, CA, arrived at the hotel and passed security armed with a shotgun. He then went on to shot a Secret Service officer before being tackled and cuffed. The officer that was shot luckily had body armour to protect him and was only treated for minor injuries by the hospital. 

The Department of Justice released surveillance video showing Allen charging past security towards the ballroom. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania were quickly evacuated by the Secret Service and so was JD Vance. When the gun was fired the Secret Service moved quickly and many of the guests dove under tables to seek shelter. 

Prosecutors say Allen planned the attack for weeks. He researched the event online and also left behind a lot of evidence of his intents to hurt administration officials. He will now face criminal charges including attempted assasination of Donald Trump. 

The Correspondents Dinner is a major event that many journalists, politicians, and celebrities attend. This was President Trump’s first attendance in his current term. Some student journalists on scholarships were in attendance and they all recall it happened so fast. 

Luckily, no guests or attendees were hurt or injured by the gunfire. The incident draws national attention to political violence and the danger it has on not just public officials. 

The investigation will continue and authorities will remain examining Allen’s full background and making sure the safely of all is secured. 

Sophomore Adeline Kelley says, “It’s so scary that these things occur. Political violence is never okay and we need to protect officials and the many people that come to see them.”

Many students at Hingham High School also feel the same way. Sophomore Allie Korn says, “What happened at the dinner is so scary for everyone involved and even those who weren’t at the event. Political violence is so scary and upsetting.” 

Political violence is never okay no matter what party the official associates themselves with or what actions they take that some dislike. Its important to protect officials but also the people that rally with them.