Federal prosecutors release video evidence refuting friendly fire claims in White House breach
US Attorney Jeanine Pirro states there is no evidence the agent was struck by friendly fire, while Secret Service Director Sean Curran confirms the suspect engaged the officer at point-blank range.
Federal prosecutors have released previously unseen video footage depicting the armed suspect attempting to breach security at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner. The material, posted by Washington US Attorney Jeanine Pirro, shows the individual running through a security checkpoint with a long gun while pointing a weapon at a Secret Service agent. This release is designed to refute speculation that the agent was injured by friendly fire, supporting the assertion that the suspect shot the officer at point-blank range.
The footage captures the chaotic sequence of events as the suspect navigates the perimeter, with officers removing metal detectors and standing casually as the armed man approaches. In the video, the suspect appears to point his weapon directly at the agent before engaging in a scuffle. While the recording does not immediately show the suspect discharging a weapon at the precise moment of the agent's injury, it documents the agent drawing their sidearm and firing at least three times while the suspect passed.
US Attorney Jeanine Pirro explicitly stated that there is no evidence the shooting resulted from friendly fire. This claim aligns with comments made by Secret Service Director Sean Curran, who confirmed the agent was shot at point-blank range by the suspect. Curran also noted that the officer heroically returned fire, firing five times during the incident. President Donald Trump has similarly denied that the agent was struck by fellow officers, asserting in the Oval Office that the claim of friendly fire was incorrect.
Contextual footage released alongside the main sequence shows the suspect casing the area at the Washington Hilton hotel the day prior to the gala. The video depicts the individual walking back and forth in a hallway and briefly entering the hotel gym. Security protocols for the event are now under increased scrutiny following confirmation that the gunman intended to assassinate President Trump and top officials.
The suspect, a 31-year-old man, has been charged with the attempted assassination of the US President and faces life imprisonment if convicted. During a recent court hearing, the defendant's attorney, Tezira Abe, confirmed that the suspect agreed to remain in custody without contesting the argument that he poses a danger to the community. The Justice Department continues to investigate the breach, with a joint FBI and terrorism task-force probing the motives behind the attack.
