US President Donald Trump said a suspect has been taken into custody after shots were fired near the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on Saturday (April 25), triggering the evacuation of senior officials including Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
Speaking at a late-night press conference at the White House, Trump confirmed that one law enforcement officer was shot but was protected by a bulletproof vest.
“The vest did its job,” he said, adding that the incident highlighted ongoing security threats facing the country.
Trump, still in his tuxedo after attending the dinner, urged Americans to resolve differences peacefully and described the attack as part of a wider pattern of threats against public figures in recent years.
The dinner, a high-profile annual Washington event that brings together journalists, politicians and celebrities, was abruptly halted after reports of loud noises resembling gunfire. Guests were seen sheltering under tables as security agents rushed to evacuate attendees.
According to Trump, the suspected gunman managed to pass through an initial security checkpoint but did not enter the main ballroom where the dinner was being held.
“The sound was quite loud, but it was from a distance. He never reached the main area,” Trump told reporters.
The Secret Service confirmed the suspect was detained, according to a White House pool report. Authorities have not released full details about the individual, though Trump said the person appeared to be from California.
Witnesses described chaos inside the venue, with security personnel shouting warnings before multiple shots were heard. Some attendees estimated as many as 20 rounds were fired during the incident.
Law enforcement officials, including US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro, said the Secret Service had taken control of the scene, with local police and city officials also deployed to assist.
The dinner was ultimately cancelled, with organisers later stating it would be rescheduled within 30 days. Trump also suggested the incident reinforced his push for enhanced security measures around the White House.
Several guests recounted being rushed out of the building as security forces secured the area, while officials confirmed no immediate injuries among attendees were reported.
Trump noted that First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President Vance and other cabinet members present were safe following the evacuation.
The incident adds to a series of security threats involving Trump in recent years, including an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally in July 2024 and other foiled plots investigated by US authorities.
The Washington Hilton has previously been associated with a major security incident, including the 1981 assassination attempt on then-president Ronald Reagan.
