Washington D.C. – Chaos erupted at the annual Presidential Gala last night following a brazen assassination attempt on singer and former First Lady Anna Martin. The incident, which occurred shortly after Ms. Martin took to the stage for a performance, has prompted a city-wide manhunt and raised serious questions about security protocols at high-profile events.

Witnesses report a lone gunman opened fire on Ms. Martin as she was concluding her set. Initial reports indicate a single shot struck her in the shoulder, causing significant injury but not immediately life-threatening. Security personnel reacted swiftly, pulling Ms. Martin to safety and engaging the suspect. A brief, intense gunfight ensued on the ballroom floor, resulting in the suspect’s capture by Secret Service agents.

“It was terrifying,” recounted catering staff member, David Miller, who was working near the stage. “One minute she was singing, the next there was this… this explosion of gunfire. Everyone just screamed and scattered. It was like something out of a movie.”

Authorities have identified the suspect as Marcus Thorne, a former member of the Presidential Guard with a documented history of erratic behavior. Investigators believe Thorne was motivated by a personal vendetta against Ms. Martin, though the specific details remain unclear.

Following the incident, Ms. Martin was transported to George Washington University Hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment. Speaking through a hospital spokesperson, she was quoted as saying, “I’m shaken, of course, but I’m incredibly grateful to the Secret Service and everyone who responded so quickly. I’ll be alright.”

The Secret Service has launched a full investigation into the security lapse that allowed the attack to occur. Questions are being raised about the adequacy of surveillance technology and the responsiveness of security teams. “We are reviewing every aspect of the event’s security plan,” stated a Senior Secret Service Official, speaking on condition of anonymity. “This incident highlights the ever-present need to adapt and improve our protocols to protect our dignitaries and the public.”

The Presidential Gala has been indefinitely postponed, and the nation is holding its breath as the investigation unfolds. Further updates will be provided as they become available.