US President Donald Trump and several senior leaders were rushed out of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner after gunshots were heard near the venue on Saturday night. The incident caused immediate panic inside the Washington Hilton ballroom. Videos showed guests reacting to a loud noise and quickly taking cover under tables. At the same time, Secret Service agents moved in and escorted Trump out of the hall.

Meanwhile, other dignitaries on the dais, including the First Lady, the Vice President, mentalist Oz Pearlman, and White House Correspondents’ Association president Weijia Jiang, were also swiftly taken to safety. Security personnel, many of them heavily armed, then entered the stage area to secure the venue. “I heard what sounded like four shots, and it seemed to come from the hall just outside the ballroom near my table," a journalist present at the event said.

Confusion Over Shooter’s Condition

Soon after the incident, reports about the shooter created confusion. Some early accounts claimed the gunman had been killed, while others suggested that authorities had taken the suspect into custody.

Later updates indicated that the shooter had been apprehended. However, officials have not yet released a full confirmed account of the situation. Importantly, both Trump and the Vice President remained unharmed during the incident.

🇺🇸 Reported image of the White House Correspondents Dinner shooter. pic.twitter.com/71lIDTDtXu

— Commentary: Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) April 26, 2026

Guests Take Cover as Chaos Unfolds

Inside the ballroom, the atmosphere quickly turned tense. Guests hid under tables as security teams took control of the situation. Some furniture was overturned in the rush, and people scrambled to find safety. US Senator John Fetterman was seen helping another attendee get up from under a table. Additionally, a Secret Service agent carrying a military-style rifle was spotted securing the area as operations continued.

Trump Praises Security Response

After reaching safety, Trump responded on Truth Social and praised law enforcement for their quick action. “Quite an evening in D.C. Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended, and I have recommended that we “LET THE SHOW GO ON” but will be entirely guided by Law Enforcement,” he wrote.

“They will make a decision shortly. Regardless of that decision, the evening will be much different from planned, and we’ll just plain have to do it again. President DONALD J. TRUMP,” he added.

Situation Under Control, More Details Expected

Authorities have now brought the situation under control. Security agencies continue to investigate the incident and are expected to release more details soon. Although the programme faced disruption, officials may decide whether to resume or reschedule the event after reviewing the situation.