A shooting incident triggered panic at a Washington hotel on Saturday night during a high-profile dinner attended by Donald Trump, prompting an immediate security response and the evacuation of the president and his wife, Melania Trump.
The incident took place at the Washington Hilton, which was hosting the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. According to a law enforcement official, a gunman opened fire inside the venue, triggering chaos among attendees.
Members of the United States Secret Service quickly intervened, escorting Trump and Melania out of the hall as gunshots were heard. Witnesses described scenes of panic, with guests shouting warnings and taking cover under tables as the situation unfolded.
Security forces in tactical gear rushed to secure the area around the stage where Trump had been seated, while police established a perimeter outside the hotel. Helicopters were deployed overhead as part of a wider security sweep.
Authorities confirmed that one officer was struck by a bullet that hit his protective vest. The officer is reported to be in stable condition and expected to recover. Officials also said the suspected gunman was apprehended at the main security checkpoint of the event.
In an official statement, the Secret Service confirmed that Trump, the first lady, and all protected individuals were safe, crediting the rapid response of security personnel for containing the situation.
About an hour after the incident, Trump posted on Truth Social that the attacker had been arrested, describing the evening as eventful and praising the performance of security agencies.
The event had drawn around 2,600 guests, many of whom were forced to shelter inside the hall during the incident, highlighting the scale of the disruption.
Despite the seriousness of the shooting, authorities were able to regain control quickly, underscoring both the risks and the preparedness surrounding major events in the US capital.
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