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Are we about to die?: Performer describes locking eyes with Trump as they ducked for cover
A performer at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner described ducking for cover as shots were fired and locking eyes with President Trump during the incident. Secret Service officers tackled Trump and moved him to safety, while a suspect was arrested and later slated for formal charging the next day. Trump discussed the event in a 60 Minutes interview, and authorities announced ongoing proceedings for the alleged gunman.
Why It Matters
The episode disrupted a high-profile political event and highlighted security responses at major gatherings, underscoring concerns about safety at public figures' appearances.
Timeline
5 Events
Formal charging for gunman scheduled for Monday
April 28, 2026
Cole Tomas Allen is expected to be formally charged at a hearing in Washington on Monday.
Arrest of suspected gunman at the venue
April 27, 2026
A suspected gunman, Cole Tomas Allen, was arrested at the venue following the firing. Authorities said he will be formally charged at a hearing in Washington on Monday.
Trump recounts the moment in a 60 Minutes interview
April 27, 2026
In a CBS 60 Minutes interview aired on Sunday, Trump said he wasn't worried during the ordeal and recalled walking with security agents and being instructed to go down on the floor.
Performer Pearlman describes locking eyes with Trump during the escape
April 26, 2026
Pearlman, a performer at the event, described ducking for cover and being about half a metre from President Trump, face-to-face as he heard shots and feared they were about to die; he noted Secret Service agents tackled Trump and they crawled to safety.
Shooting at White House Correspondents' Association dinner
April 26, 2026
During the White House Correspondents' Association dinner at the Washington Hilton, shots were fired. Police later named the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, who exchanged fire with security personnel on the floor above the room where President Trump was seated.