The annual White House Correspondents' Association dinner was thrown into chaos on April 25, 2026, when gunfire erupted outside the ballroom. This prompted the immediate evacuation of President Donald Trump and all other attendees.

Incident and Evacuation

The incident resulted in one Secret Service officer sustaining an injury, though the officer was protected by a bullet-resistant vest and is recovering. Journalists, politicians, and guests were left in shock as the evening took a dramatic turn, with many fleeing the scene or seeking shelter.

Initial Reactions and Confusion

As the sound of gunshots echoed through the room, President Trump initially questioned if the noise was gunfire or a dropped tray, remarking, “I was hoping it was a tray, but it wasn’t.” Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) described hearing a “pop” followed by “all sorts of things clatter,” before witnessing a swift response from security personnel.

Chaos on Stage and in the Ballroom

Oz Pearlman, the mentalist performing on stage at the time, recounted the chaotic scene to The Associated Press. Vice President JD Vance was the first to be escorted off stage. President Trump and the First Lady were initially shielded behind armored plating before being moved to a secure suite.

Witnesses described a scene of panic, with people diving under tables and chairs. Some attempted to start a “USA” chant, but were quickly silenced. Erika Kirk, widow of Charlie Kirk, was seen in tears as she was escorted from the ballroom.

Aftermath and Investigation

The gunman, who bypassed security barricades, was quickly tackled and taken into custody. He was transported to a hospital for evaluation but was not injured. Heavily armed Secret Service agents and National Guard personnel secured the Washington Hilton.

President Trump remained at the hotel, which had a pre-established secure location mirroring security measures implemented after the 1981 assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan at the same venue. He expressed a desire to resume the dinner once security was restored.

The White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, known for its blend of journalism and political interaction, was already marked by tension as journalists prepared to cover and potentially question President Trump and his administration.