A major security scare unfolded during the annual White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner in Washington, D.C., after loud bangs were heard inside the venue, triggering panic among thousands of attendees.
U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were immediately rushed out by Secret Service agents as guests ducked for cover.
People inside the hall reportedly shouted, “Get down, get down!” as chaos spread. Many of the nearly 2,600 attendees hid under tables, while security personnel in combat gear entered the room to secure the area.
Secret Service Swiftly Responds
Eyewitnesses said the President and First Lady briefly took cover behind the dais before being evacuated. Senior officials present at the event were also pushed to the ground as a precaution.
A source confirmed that law enforcement quickly took control of the situation and detained a suspect linked to the incident. The United States Secret Service later stated that both Trump and Melania were safe.
Authorities have not yet released full details about the nature of the threat or whether anyone was injured.
Trump Praises Security Forces
Following the incident, Trump took to social media to commend the swift response of security agencies.
“Quite an evening in D.C. Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job,” he said, adding, “The shooter has been apprehended.”
He also revealed that he had initially suggested continuing the event, saying, “Let the show go on,” but acknowledged that the final decision rested with security officials.
Event Likely to Be Rescheduled
Due to the disruption, the dinner did not proceed as planned. Trump indicated that the event may be held again at a later date.
“Regardless of that decision, the evening will be much different than planned, and we’ll just have to do it again,” he said.
Officials confirmed that an investigation is ongoing to determine the exact sequence of events and the motive behind the scare. Security agencies are reviewing evidence and assessing whether additional threats exist.
