Trump calls Waffle House shooting hero James Shaw Jr.

President Donald Trump on Monday morning called James Shaw Jr., who authorities say saved lives by disarming a gunman at a Waffle House in Nashville last month, to praise his actions.

“This morning he had a call with James Shaw to commend his heroic actions and quick thinking at a Waffle House in Tennessee,” White House deputy press secretary Raj Shah said Monday. “Mr. Shaw saved lives when he wrestled a gun from an active shooter who had opened fire.“


Shaw, 29, has been labeled a “hero” by Nashville police for confronting the shooter in the attack, which left four dead. Travis Reinking, the suspect, was arrested last month.

The White House said earlier this month that the Trump administration was looking to invite Shaw to the White House.

When asked why Trump did not meet Shaw in person, Shah said he was unsure if such an invite had been formally extended. “I don't know if he was invited,” Shah said. “I just honestly don't have more for you on that.“

Trump has been criticized for failing to address the shooting in which all the victims were people of color. In addition, critics have called out the president for not publicly thanking Shaw, who is African-American. Trump has yet to tweet or speak publicly about the attack.