Shots were allegedly fired while US President Donald Trump attended the high-profile White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington on Saturday night, causing panic among hundreds of high-ranking guests.
Witnesses and AFP reporters described hearing loud bangs within the Washington Hilton Hotel, prompting guests in black-tie attire to scramble under tables for cover.
Tactical teams with weapons drawn immediately secured the stage where Trump had been sitting before he was rushed to safety.
CNN and other US media outlets have confirmed that President Trump is unhurt. According to pool reports citing the Secret Service, an alleged shooter is in custody, though official confirmation is still pending.
One person is reportedly injured, though the extent and cause remain unclear.
The chaos erupted after the welcoming remarks, just as dinner was being served and before the President was set to speak.
Cabinet official Mehmet Oz was heard shouting “shots fired upstairs” as security personnel moved him out of the ballroom.
The incident occurred at the same hotel where Republican President Ronald Reagan was shot in a 1981 assassination attempt.
It also follows two other major security threats against Trump, including the July 2024 Butler rally shooting where he was grazed in the ear.
Despite the security breach, organizers informed guests that the gala—often referred to as the “Nerd Prom”—would proceed. This marked the first time Trump has attended the event during his presidency.
