Donald Trump narrowly escaped harm after a gunman opened fire during a media gala in Washington on Saturday night, triggering panic among guests and a swift security response.
The incident occurred at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, held at the Washington Hilton Hotel, where hundreds of attendees had gathered. The suspect was apprehended at a security screening area outside the ballroom shortly after shots were fired.
Security operatives quickly evacuated Trump from the stage as guests scrambled for safety, with many diving under tables amid the chaos. Armed tactical teams secured the venue while law enforcement officials flooded the scene and helicopters hovered overhead.
In a statement, Trump commended the swift action of security agencies, confirming that the shooter had been taken into custody. He added that the First Lady, Vice President, and cabinet members were unharmed, and noted plans to reschedule the event within a month.
The United States Secret Service confirmed the arrest of one suspect, stating that the shooting occurred near the main security checkpoint. Authorities are yet to provide full details on the motive or sequence of events.
The disruption came shortly after the opening remarks and before Trump was due to deliver his speech. Some administration officials were evacuated immediately, while confusion lingered over the exact circumstances of the shooting. Cabinet member Mehmet Oz reportedly alerted others to “shots fired” as he was escorted out.
Saturday’s incident adds to previous security threats involving Trump.
During a 2024 campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a gunman fired at him, killing one attendee and injuring the then-presidential candidate. Months later, another suspect was arrested near a golf course in West Palm Beach after a weapon was spotted by security agents.
The Washington Hilton has historical significance as the site of the 1981 assassination attempt on Ronald Reagan.
Organizers initially indicated the dinner would proceed despite the scare but later announced its postponement. The event, often dubbed the “Nerd Prom,” typically gathers journalists, media executives, and public officials to raise funds for scholarships and awards.
This marked Trump’s first attendance at the dinner while in office, following years of criticism directed at the media and the event’s organizers, the White House Correspondents’ Association.