Trump unharmed as gunfire erupts at White House correspondents’ dinner

U.S. President Donald Trump and the First Lady were unhurt after a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., on Saturday night.

The United States Secret Service confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody, adding that investigations are ongoing in collaboration with local law enforcement.

According to BBC on Sunday, the agency said the shooting occurred near the main security screening area at the event venue, the Washington Hilton, where hundreds of journalists, politicians, and guests had gathered.

“The president and first lady are safe along with all protectees,” the statement read, noting that the condition of those involved in the incident 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 top 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, while voices were heard urging people to “stay down.”

Shortly after the incident, Trump praised security agencies for their swift response.

“Secret Service and law enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended,” he said in a post on social media.

He added that while he initially suggested the event continue, final decisions would be made by security authorities, noting that the evening’s programme had been significantly disrupted.

Organisers later confirmed that the president would address the press, with plans to possibly reschedule the event within 30 days.

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner is an annual gathering that brings together journalists, political leaders, and public figures, and is often seen as a key moment celebrating press freedom in the United States.

As of press time, authorities had yet to release full details about the suspect or possible casualties linked to the incident.

Watch the video below:

𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩 𝐔𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐀𝐬 𝐆𝐮𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐄𝐫𝐮𝐩𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐖𝐡𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬’ 𝐃𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫

Credit: X | JenniferJJacobs, FaytuksNetwork, Osinttechnical
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Hannah Johnson is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over three years of professional experience in reporting, storytelling, and digital content creation. She blends traditional reporting skills with a modern, digital-first approach to journalism, producing content tailored for both web and social platforms. Hannah is skilled at turning complex topics into clear, engaging, and relatable stories that resonate with a wide audience. Her work reflects hands-on newsroom experience, editorial judgment, and a strong commitment to accurate, audience-focused journalism.