Musk decries 'dangerous rise' in US political violence after Correspondents' Dinner shooting
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New Delhi: Billionaire Elon Musk condemned a shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner as evidence of escalating political violence in the US.
"They are willing to die to kill the democratically elected president," Musk posted on X, referencing the attack that disrupted the high-profile Washington Hilton gathering attended by Donald Trump, Melania Trump and senior officials.
A 31-year-old suspect, armed with a shotgun and handgun, allegedly tried to breach a Secret Service checkpoint near the main screening area. He opened fire, sparking panic as hundreds of journalists, politicians and guests dived under tables.
Security rushed the Trumps from the stage. A Secret Service agent was hit but protected by his bullet-resistant vest and remains stable.
Authorities took the lone suspect into custody. Trump, in a post-incident press conference, confirmed the agent was shot in his vest and noted ongoing investigations into the motive.
The breach at Washington's premier media event has prompted warnings from leaders about threats to elected officials, fuelling calls for restraint and bolstered security.
(Inputs from IANS)