U.S. President Donald Trump, Vice President, JD Vance and the First Lady escaped unharmed after a shooting incident erupted at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., on Saturday night, prompting the evacuation of top government officials and sending hundreds of guests into a panic.
The United States Secret Service confirmed that a suspect was taken into custody shortly after the incident, with investigations ongoing in collaboration with local law enforcement.
The agency said the shooting occurred near the main security screening area at the Washington Hilton, the venue for the annual gathering of journalists, politicians, and public figures.
“The president and first lady are safe along with all protectees,” the Secret Service said in a statement, adding that the condition of others involved was still being assessed.
Witnesses reported hearing what sounded like gunshots shortly after 8:30 p.m., triggering panic as attendees fled the ballroom. Security operatives were seen swiftly evacuating senior officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance and members of the cabinet. Video footage from the scene showed Secret Service agents clearing the stage and ushering the president and other dignitaries to safety, with voices heard urging people to “stay down.”
Trump later praised security agencies for their response, writing on social media that Secret Service and law enforcement “acted quickly and bravely” and that the shooter had been apprehended. He said he had initially suggested the event continue but deferred the final decision to security authorities.
Organisers subsequently confirmed that the president would still address the press, with plans to possibly reschedule the full programme within 30 days.
As of press time, authorities had yet to release full details on the suspect or confirm the number of casualties linked to the incident.