A security scare disrupted the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington on Saturday night after gunshots were reported near the venue, prompting the evacuation of US President Donald Trump and other top officials.
The incident occurred at the Washington Hilton Hotel, where hundreds of guests had gathered for the high-profile media gala.
According to security officials, the gunman was intercepted at a screening area just outside the hotel ballroom.
Trump was hurriedly escorted off the stage as armed security personnel moved swiftly through the venue.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes, with guests diving under tables as tactical teams took control of the situation.
“Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended,” Trump said on social media.
He added that authorities had advised an immediate evacuation of the premises.
“Law Enforcement has requested that we leave the premises,” he said.
“The First Lady, plus the Vice President, and all Cabinet members, are in perfect condition.”
The President also disclosed plans to address the incident publicly, noting he would “shortly hold a press conference at the White House,” while indicating the event would be rescheduled.
“The shooter has been apprehended,” he reiterated, adding that he intended to hold the dinner within a month despite the disruption.
The US Secret Service confirmed that a suspect had been taken into custody, stating that the shooting occurred near the main security screening area.
Heavily armed officers were seen securing the stage moments after Trump’s evacuation, while police units surrounded the hotel and helicopters hovered overhead.
The disturbance broke out shortly after the welcome remarks and during dinner, just before the President was scheduled to speak.
Senior administration officials were among the first to be evacuated, as uncertainty lingered over the full circumstances of the incident.
A cabinet official, Mehmet Oz, reportedly told aides “shots fired upstairs” as he was escorted out by security personnel.
Saturday’s event marked Trump’s first attendance at the Correspondents’ Dinner while in office, an annual gathering of journalists, media executives, and political figures often referred to as the “Nerd Prom.”
The White House Correspondents’ Association had initially indicated the programme would continue, but organisers later announced its postponement following the incident
