August M
Confusion and panic unfolded in seconds as gunshots disrupted a high-profile Washington event.
New details reveal why the vice president was moved before the president during the evacuation, reports Digi24.ro.
Split-second reaction
Security agents moved quickly after shots were heard at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
According to Digi24, US Vice President JD Vance was the first to be removed from the ballroom.
Footage shows agents lifting him from his seat and escorting him out amid chaos.
Moments later, President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were also evacuated.
Chaos inside
The scene inside the venue quickly turned tense.
According to Digi24, guests reacted with alarm as noises echoed through the room.
Items fell from tables while attendees shouted in confusion.
Vance appeared visibly shaken as he was guided away by security personnel.
Security protocol
Officials say the sequence followed established procedures.
According to Digi24, citing US media reports, each protected figure has a dedicated security team.
Vance was escorted immediately by his own agents, acting independently.
Trump, as president, was initially shielded in place before being moved.
Strategic positioning
The layout of the room also influenced the evacuation.
According to Digi24, separate exits and seating arrangements played a role in how agents acted.
The goal was to minimise exposure time for both leaders.
Officials stressed that the order did not reflect differing levels of priority.
Official response
The Secret Service defended its handling of the incident.
“Tonight we saw exactly what our brave men and women do every day to protect those under our protection,” said Director Sean Curran.
He added that the agency’s multi-layered system functioned as intended.
Public reaction
The incident sparked debate online.
According to Digi24, some supporters questioned the sequence of events, while others expressed relief that no leaders were harmed.
Authorities continue to investigate how the attacker breached security.
Sources: Digi24, CNN, NBC News
