First Lady Melania Trump marked her 56th birthday Sunday, April 26, one day after she and President Donald Trump were abruptly escorted from the White House Correspondents’ Dinner following a gunman opening fire inside the hotel.
The incident occurred Saturday night at the Washington Hilton, where the annual event drew political leaders, journalists, and guests. Donald Trump said the noise initially caused confusion before it became clear something was wrong.
Norah O’Donnell, who interviewed the president the day after the incident, noted “the shock on their faces,” while Trump said the moment quickly shifted. “Right after that, we heard a big bang, and it was either a gunshot or it was a tray of dishes, which happens a lot in ballrooms. And I was hoping it was a tray, but it wasn't,” he said.
Asked whether the first lady was frightened, Trump responded, “I don't wanna say, and people don't like having it said that they were scared. But certainly, I mean, who wouldn't be when you have a situation like that?”
“By that time, I think she realized ahead of time that that was more of a bullet than it was a tray,” Trump said, adding, “I looked at her face just a little while ago before I came. I saw the scene. They played it for me and, you know, pretty good closeup. And, she looked very upset about what just took place.”
Secret Service agents entered the ballroom shortly after the sound and escorted the president and first lady from the stage. Vice President JD Vance and press secretary Karoline Leavitt were also removed. Video from the event shows attendees taking cover as the scene unfolded.
Law enforcement officials identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen. The incident adds to ongoing security concerns surrounding the president, following two previous attempts on his life in 2024, including a shooting at a Pennsylvania campaign rally and another incident at a Florida golf course.
Melania Trump has historically kept her birthday celebrations private, often opting for small gatherings with family or continuing official duties. Last year, she spent the day in Vatican City attending the funeral of Pope Francis.
Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla are currently visiting the White House for a four-day visit.