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Hilton Shooting: WHCA Praises Swift Law Enforcement Response

The White House Correspondents' Association praised law enforcement after a shooting at its annual dinner venue, the Washington Hilton, highlighting swift action that ensured safety. WHCA President Weijia Jiang expressed gratitude to the US Secret Service and all law enforcement personnel for protecting thousands of guests. One officer was injured during the response, and the association wished for a full recovery. The WHCA board will review the incident and determine future steps, while journalists present continued reporting with calm and courage.

Key Points: WHCA Praises Law Enforcement After Hilton Shooting

  • Shooting occurred at Washington Hilton during WHCA annual dinner
  • Swift law enforcement response ensured safety of President, officials, and thousands of guests
  • One officer injured, no other injuries reported
  • WHCA board to review incident and determine future steps
3 min read

White House Correspondents' Association praisess response after Hilton shooting

WHCA President Weijia Jiang praises law enforcement for swift action after a shooting at the Washington Hilton during the annual dinner, ensuring safety of President and guests.

"We express our deepest gratitude to the US Secret Service and all law enforcement personnel who ensured the safety of everyone in the ballroom and beyond. - Weijia Jiang"

Washington, April 27

The White House Correspondents' Association praised law enforcement after a shooting at its annual dinner venue, saying swift action ensured the safety of the President, senior officials and thousands of attendees.

"Last night's shooting at the Washington Hilton was a harrowing moment for everyone in attendance," WHCA President Weijia Jiang said in a statement, describing the incident as a serious disruption at one of Washington's most closely watched events.

Authorities moved quickly to secure the venue, which was hosting the association's annual dinner attended by top US leaders, journalists and public figures. The WHCA said the response helped prevent further harm.

"We express our deepest gratitude to the US Secret Service and all law enforcement personnel who ensured the safety of everyone in the ballroom and beyond," Jiang said.

Their actions, she added, "protected thousands of guests," highlighting the scale of the gathering.

One officer was injured during the response. The WHCA said it wished "a full and speedy recovery to the officer who was injured in the line of duty." No other injuries were reported among those attending the event.

"We are grateful everyone in attendance was unharmed, including the President, the First Lady, and the Vice President," Jiang said.

The shooting occurred during the annual White House Correspondents' dinner, a high-profile event that celebrates press freedom and brings together political leaders and the media.

The association underscored the broader significance of the occasion, noting that "our dinner exists to celebrate the First Amendment and the hard daily work of the journalists who defend it."

In the immediate aftermath, journalists present at the venue continued reporting as the situation unfolded.

"Last night, those journalists showed exactly the kind of calm and courage that work demands, jumping into reporting immediately after the incident unfolded," Jiang said.

"We are proud of everyone in that room," she added.

The WHCA board said it would review the incident and determine how to proceed, including any future steps related to the event.

"The WHCA board will be meeting to assess what happened and determine how to proceed. We will provide updates as soon as any are available," Jiang said.s and media discourse.

Founded in 1914, the White House Correspondents' Association represents journalists covering the U.S. presidency and advocates for press access and transparency. Its annual dinner has become a prominent fixture in Washington, symbolising the relationship between the press and political leadership in the United States.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
"I find it interesting how the dinner celebrates press freedom, yet journalists themselves are at risk. Security is paramount, but perhaps we need a deeper conversation on why such events become targets. Still, relieved no one was seriously harmed."
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Vikram M
"Wah! Harrowing moment indeed. But the response by law enforcement shows quick thinking saved the day. In India, our NSG or SPG would do the same. The President and First Lady being safe is key. Jai Hind to all security forces worldwide! 👮‍♂️🇺🇸"
S
Shreya B
"I appreciate the WHCA's gratitude, but it's sad that even high-profile events like these aren't safe from gun violence. Maybe the US needs stricter gun laws? Meanwhile, glad journalists continued reporting—shows their commitment to truth. 🙏"
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Aditya G
"Security protocols worked well here. As someone from India watching US events, it's reassuring that the system responds effectively. The First Amendment and press freedom are crucial—our Indian Constitution also values freedom of speech. Hope the officer recovers quickly. 🕊️"
R
Rohit P
"Glad everyone is safe, but it's a reminder that no place is truly secure anymore. The WHCA dinner is symbolic, and such threats undermine it. On a positive note, the journalists' courage and calmness is inspiring. Respect to all involved. 🙌"

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