President Donald Trump was abruptly removed from the White House Correspondents’ Association’s annual dinner on Saturday night after gunshots rang out in the Washington ballroom where the event was held.
According to video footage captured by multiple news outlets, Trump was seated on the dais when loud bangs disrupted the proceedings, prompting him and others on stage to look up in alarm before Secret Service agents swiftly escorted him from the venue.
The incident occurred during what was intended to be a celebratory gathering marking Trump’s first appearance as president at the prestigious annual event, which has traditionally brought together journalists, politicians, and celebrities.
White House Correspondents’ Association officials confirmed the disruption but provided no immediate details about the source or nature of the gunshots, stating only that an investigation was underway in coordination with the United States Secret Service.
As of the latest reports, no injuries have been confirmed among attendees, though several guests described diving to the floor for safety upon hearing the sudden noises.
The Secret Service has not released any official statement regarding the incident, and the White House has declined to comment further beyond confirming the president’s safety and return to the White House.
The White House Correspondents’ Association has announced that the remainder of the evening’s program has been canceled, and the organization will cooperate fully with authorities as the investigation continues.