Trump safe after gunfire disrupts White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington

• Security scare at Washington Hilton as Trump evacuated from correspondents’ gala

Washington, Apr 26: United States President Donald Trump remained unharmed after a shooting incident triggered panic and forced the evacuation of top American leaders from the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner at the Washington Hilton on Saturday night.

According to reports, the incident occurred near the venue where President Trump, senior officials, journalists, guests and other dignitaries had gathered for the annual high-profile media event. A gunman reportedly attempted to breach the security area outside the ballroom and opened fire, prompting an immediate response from the Secret Service and other law-enforcement agencies. The suspect was later taken into custody.

The dinner, one of Washington’s most prominent political and media gatherings, was abruptly suspended as security personnel rushed to secure the area. Guests inside the ballroom were seen taking cover under tables as confusion spread across the hall. Audible gasps and urgent instructions from security staff filled the room while journalists and attendees tried to gather information and contact their newsrooms.

President Trump was quickly escorted away from the stage by Secret Service agents. Reports said he appeared to briefly stumble during the evacuation but was immediately assisted by security personnel. First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance and other senior officials were also reported safe.

Law-enforcement officials said one Secret Service officer was struck, but the officer’s bullet-resistant vest prevented serious injury. President Trump later said the injured officer was in good condition and praised the bravery of security personnel involved in containing the threat.

The White House Correspondents’ Association said the programme would be rescheduled. “We will do this again,” association president Weijia Jiang was quoted as saying after the event was halted. Soon afterward, staff began removing table settings and the presidential lectern as the venue was cleared.

The shooting has raised fresh concerns over security arrangements at major political events in the United States, particularly gatherings attended by the President, Cabinet members, lawmakers and senior media representatives. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the motive, security breach and exact sequence of events.

The incident, though contained without any loss of life, turned a formal evening of political tradition and media engagement into a tense security emergency. It also once again underlined the challenges faced by law-enforcement agencies in protecting public figures during large gatherings in a deeply polarised political climate. (with input of  AP)