Donald Trump was rushed from the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, DC on Saturday night after gunfire erupted outside the venue, prompting a swift security response.
The incident occurred at the Washington Hilton, where the high-profile media gala was being held. According to officials, a suspect armed with multiple weapons attempted to breach a security checkpoint before being neutralized by the United States Secret Service.
Trump, along with First Lady Melania Trump and members of his cabinet, was unharmed. However, one Secret Service officer sustained injuries after being shot but was protected by a bulletproof vest and is reported to be in stable condition.
In a brief address following the incident, Trump described the suspect as a “very sick person” and urged Americans to resolve differences peacefully. “This is not the first time our republic has faced such threats,” he said, amid growing concerns over political violence.
Authorities confirmed that one individual is in custody, while investigations are ongoing. Jeanine Pirro stated that the suspect will face charges including use of a firearm during a violent crime and assault on federal officers.
Meanwhile, Kash Patel said federal agents are examining the suspect’s background and called on the public to provide any relevant information.
The annual event, which celebrates press freedom, was interrupted as attendees took cover inside the ballroom following the sound of gunshots. Trump was escorted out by heavily armed security personnel as a precaution.
The incident marks another alarming security scare involving the president, who has previously survived assassination attempts, including a shooting during a 2024 campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Despite the disruption, Trump said the event would be rescheduled, emphasizing that such attacks would not deter public gatherings.
