A major security incident disrupted the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, forcing US President Donald Trump and several senior officials to be urgently evacuated after reports of gunfire at the venue.
The event took place at the Washington Hilton, where top government figures, including Vice President JD Vance and members of the Cabinet, were in attendance. According to officials, the situation escalated quickly when loud bangs were heard, prompting immediate action from security personnel.
Secret Service agents reacted swiftly, shouting “shots fired” as they moved to secure the area. Guests were instructed to take cover, with many seen hiding under tables as the venue descended into chaos. Within minutes, the building was evacuated as a precautionary measure, with emergency teams securing exits and sweeping the premises for threats.
Law enforcement sources confirmed that one suspect was apprehended shortly after the incident. Authorities have stated that the situation is now under control and that there is no ongoing threat to public safety. Investigations are ongoing to determine how the incident unfolded and whether it was targeted or isolated.
Reports from CNN indicate that President Trump and Vice President JD Vance are both safe, and no injuries have been reported among senior officials present at the event. Security at the venue has since been tightened as officials review what led to the breach.
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In a statement shared on X, officials confirmed that the incident had been contained and praised the rapid response of security teams. President Trump also addressed the situation on Truth Social, noting that the suspect had been taken into custody and commending law enforcement for their swift action.
Veteran journalist Wolf Blitzer, who was present at the venue, described the scene as highly tense, saying he was only a few feet away from the suspected gunman when the situation unfolded. He added that the response from security was immediate and coordinated.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and how the weapon was brought into the venue, while security protocols are expected to be reviewed following the event.
