Stories from Washington · United States

President Trump is reported safe following an incident where shots were fired at him. During the White House Correspondents' Dinner, guests sought cover under tables as security forces, National Guard, and Secret Service personnel evacuated the area. Cabinet members were pulled out of the building one by one within one to two minutes of the incident. The ballroom, described as being the length of several football fields, typically lacks cell service due to the density of people. Security measures included magnetometers positioned in the hallways and outside the venue. Reporters noted a heavy presence of security agents during the incident. Security forces, including National Guardsmen and Secret Service personnel, evacuated attendees from the hotel ballroom. Local authorities established multiple blockades around the hotel to prevent vehicle-borne explosive devices.

The FBI has revealed information about a Pakistani tourist visiting the United States who allegedly made attempts, though not appearing serious, to contract for assassinations. Al Jazeera reports the blockade has improved Tehran's financial position. The move follows previous discussions regarding potential deals and regional uncertainty. Donald Trump stated on social media that Iranian leadership lacks control and is experiencing internal divisions. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard remains active in obstructing international navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi's diplomatic efforts follow previous proposals that were deemed insufficient by international observers. President noted that while a decision to send a delegation to Islamabad regarding Iranian initiatives has not been finalized, the situation remains fluid.

Gunshots were heard coming from inside the Washington Hilton during an event involving Donald Trump. The event occurred shortly after the National Anthem was played. The shooting occurred amidst a White House Correspondents' Dinner event. The event was intended to be a bipartisan gathering for freedom of speech involving members of the press. One officer was shot at close range by a powerful firearm but survived due to a bulletproof vest. The agency released footage of the incident for transparency purposes. Security personnel are reviewing personal belongings and surveillance footage to determine the exact timeline of the individual's entry into the hotel salon. Initial reports regarding the specific location of the encounter within the premises remain unconfirmed. Eyewitnesses reported gunshots during the event, leading to police escorting civilians to safety.

The United States economy grew by 1.4 percent during the fourth quarter. This growth rate was weaker than what analysts had previously forecasted, according to the Commerce Department. The Trump administration expects the first tariff refunds to be issued on May 11th. Customs Agency. The data was reported by NPR News and KQED News. Business spending, particularly in the artificial intelligence sector, was a primary driver of the growth. Economic signals remain mixed as inflation or price increases are noted at 114. Gasoline prices in California are also being monitored. The US Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that US first-quarter GDP grew at an annual rate of 2 percent. Additionally, jobless claims reached a 57-year low with 189,000 claims reported last week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 609 points, a 1.3 percent increase.

The U.S. Foreign automakers have reportedly expressed concerns to the administration regarding these potential tariffs. Washington is implementing economic and banking isolation against Iran and its allies, including China. The measures include potential 25 percent tariffs on countries that engage in commercial trade with Iran. These actions aim to subject trading nations and companies to US sanctions. The source noted that these measures create financial and commercial isolation for Iran's partners. The United States has raised tariffs on cars and trucks to 25 percent. The move is intended to force faster factory production shifts. President Trump did not provide specific reasons or details regarding how the EU failed to meet previous promises. The EU stated it is following standard legislative practices and keeping the US administration informed.

Senator Nyamu has introduced legislation aimed at regulating the use of artificial intelligence.

Total bankruptcy filings in the United States have reached 591,800 according to recent government data. This figure represents a rise driven by mounting economic pressures including sticky inflation and elevated tariffs. Despite the increase, total filings remain well below highs. The data was released by US courts. While the number of filings is rising, the total remains well below highs. This figure reflects a number of businesses and individuals seeking financial restructuring.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Vice President JD Vance were immediately rushed out of a venue following reports of gunshots. The security breach occurred in a location where officials were present. Details regarding the specific location and the identity of the suspect remain unconfirmed. President Trump and Cabinet members were evacuated following reports of gunfire in the capital. Officials are currently investigating all aspects of the event to determine the circumstances. No specific casualties or injuries have been confirmed in this report. New footage shows the meeting included cabinet members and senators alongside the President and Vice President. The spouse of the US President's chief advisor was also present at the gathering.

Commemorations were held in Washington, D.C. to mark the one-year anniversary of the death of Virginia Roberts-Jufre. Roberts-Jufre was a prominent accuser of the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, alleging he trafficked her to Prince Andrew when she was 17. Survivors of Epstein's trafficking ring gathered to honor her courage.

Secret Service personnel escorted Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Small Business Administrator from a table during an event. The suspect was apprehended at the scene and both he and the agent were transported to hospitals. Observers noted that the building's security appeared inadequate during the event. The Mayor of Washington D.C. Military and Secret Service are demanding security levels following the Hilton shooting. Requirements include drone-proof measures and bulletproof glass to protect the White House motorcade and personnel. Officials said that these locations require levels of protection compared to previous decades. Officials noted the current building is not a particularly secure facility for such operations. Law enforcement agencies are coordinating with the DC police and the Mayor's office on the response.