Shots were fired during a press dinner in Washington, but Donald Trump was safely evacuated without injury

Shots rang out as Donald Trump attended a media gala in Washington on Saturday night, prompting a swift security response after a gunman was detained at a screening area just outside the hotel ballroom where hundreds had gathered.

Trump was quickly escorted off the stage at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, as security personnel moved through the crowd and guests took cover under tables amid the chaos.

In a social media post, Trump praised the response, saying, “Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended.” He added that he would soon hold a press conference at the White House.

“Law Enforcement has requested that we leave the premises,” he said, noting that the First Lady, Vice President, and all Cabinet members were safe. He also said the event would be rescheduled within a month.

The Secret Service confirmed one suspect was in custody and said the shooting occurred near the main security screening area. Armed tactical teams later secured the stage where Trump had been seated, while police surrounded the Washington Hilton and helicopters hovered overhead.

The incident unfolded after the welcome speech and during dinner, before Trump was due to address the gathering. Officials from the administration were evacuated first, and details initially remained unclear. Cabinet member Mehmet Oz was heard saying “shots fired upstairs” as he was escorted out.

Trump has faced security threats before, including an assassination attempt during a 2024 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a gunman opened fire, killing one attendee and grazing Trump’s ear. Months later, another suspect was arrested near his golf course in West Palm Beach.

The Washington Hilton has also been the site of past violence, including the 1981 shooting of Ronald Reagan.

Organizers initially said the dinner would continue but later postponed the event. The gala, often dubbed “Nerd Prom,” brings together journalists, officials, and media executives for scholarships and awards. This marked Trump’s first attendance at the event while in office, after years of criticism toward the media.