WASHINGTON, D.C. — A gunfire scare briefly disrupted the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday evening after sounds resembling shots were reported near the Washington Hilton, prompting a rapid security response and the evacuation of high-profile guests, according to witnesses and officials.
The incident occurred at around 8:40 p.m. local time, as hundreds of journalists, government officials and invited guests were gathered inside the hotel ballroom for the high-profile event, a longstanding fixture of the U.S. political and media calendar.
Multiple attendees told reporters they heard a series of loud bangs from outside or near the venue, triggering momentary panic. Some guests moved away from windows and open areas, while others took cover under tables as security personnel moved swiftly to secure the site.
Former U.S. president Donald Trump, who was reported by several outlets to be present at the event, was quickly escorted from the area by agents from the United States Secret Service. Other senior figures were also moved to secure locations as a precaution, according to security sources.
Law enforcement officials said a suspect—a 31-year-old man—was taken into custody shortly after the incident. Authorities did not immediately release the individual’s identity or possible motive, and it remains unclear whether the sounds heard were the result of an intentional shooting, a security-related discharge, or another cause.
One member of the security detail sustained minor injuries, officials said, though initial reports indicated that protective equipment prevented more serious harm. The individual is reported to be in stable condition.
Police units rapidly sealed off the surrounding streets, while helicopters were seen circling overhead as part of the security sweep. The venue and its immediate perimeter remained under lockdown for several hours as investigators conducted a preliminary assessment.
Event organizers confirmed that the dinner was suspended and later fully canceled to ensure the safety of attendees. Guests were gradually escorted out under controlled conditions once authorities determined there was no immediate ongoing threat.
In a brief statement following the incident, Trump said he and those accompanying him were safe and praised the “fast and professional response” of security personnel.
Officials cautioned that the investigation is ongoing and urged the public to avoid speculation until verified information is released. No group has claimed responsibility, and authorities have not indicated any broader security threat at this stage.
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner, traditionally attended by top political leaders and media figures, is considered a high-security event, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities responded to the reported gunfire.
Security analysts say incidents of this nature—whether confirmed shootings or false alarms—highlight the persistent challenges faced by law enforcement in protecting large-scale, high-profile gatherings in the U.S. capital.
