US President Trump was swiftly evacuated from a White House correspondents’ dinner following suspected gunshots heard during the event. The security breach caused a commotion as attendees took cover under tables upon hearing what seemed like gunshots emanating from the vicinity of the ballroom.
Trump was promptly ushered out of the venue by secret service agents, while several thousand individuals remained in lockdown in the main ballroom. The situation unfolded in chaos, with images depicting guests seeking shelter under tables and security assisting some in evacuating the premises.
The White House pool confirmed the president’s presence at the Washington Hilton at 20:56 local time (01:56 BST), indicating that Trump was still at the location. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of injuries, although the sounds of gunshots were audible. Emergency sirens blared as vehicles rushed to the scene, accompanied by a circling helicopter.
Trump, engaged in conversation at the time, was swiftly moved by secret service personnel as loud bangs reverberated in the venue, prompting calls to “stay down.” Additionally, Trump’s senior advisor, Stephen Miller, was also escorted out of the premises in response to the alarming situation.
The incident remains under investigation, and updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.