The White House Correspondents' Association has postponed Saturday's annual gala after a shooting near the venue, sources confirm. Gunfire erupted Thursday evening on a street adjacent to the Washington Hilton, where the dinner was set to take place. Two people were hospitalised, one in critical condition. The attack, which occurred just before 10pm, sent guests and staff scrambling for cover. Witnesses described a lone gunman firing multiple rounds before fleeing. Police have not yet named a suspect, and a manhunt is under way.
UK media have roundly condemned the violence. The Guardian called it 'a brazen assault on the free press.' The Times described it as 'an attack on democratic values.' The BBC's North America editor noted the irony: an event celebrating press freedom targeted by gunfire.
The dinner, a century-old tradition, draws journalists, politicians and celebrities. This year's was to feature comedian Roy Wood Jr. and President Biden as guest. Organisers said the decision to reschedule came after consultations with law enforcement. 'We cannot hold an event while our colleagues are in trauma,' WHCA president Kelly O'Connell said.
Investigators are probing whether the shooting was politically motivated. An anonymous source close to the probe told me the gunman may be linked to far-right groups, but the official cautioned it is early. No connection has been made to the dinner itself. The hotel has ramped up security, with armed guards patrolling the perimeter.
Sources confirm the FBI has joined the investigation. A coordinated statement from British and American press freedom groups denounced the attack. 'This is a strike at the heart of journalism,' the Committee to Protect Journalists said.
The shooting has reignited debate on gun control in Washington. Critics point to DC's high crime rate and easy access to firearms. The White House declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation.
The rescheduled date remains unset. For now, the city's press corps mourns. As one veteran reporter put it: 'We have many stories to cover. This will be one that stays.'
