President Donald Trump and the First Lady were unhurt after a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., on Saturday night.
The United States Secret Service announced that a suspect has been apprehended, and that investigations are continuing in coordination with local law enforcement.
According to the BBC on Sunday, the shooting took place near the main security screening area at the Washington Hilton, where hundreds of journalists, lawmakers, and visitors had gathered.
“The president and first lady are safe along with all protectees,” the statement read, noting that the condition of those involved in the incident was still being assessed.
Witnesses reported hearing what sounded like gunshots shortly after 8:30 p.m., which caused panic as people evacuated the ballroom.
Security personnel were observed hurriedly evacuating important officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance and cabinet members.
Video footage from the situation showed Secret Service officials evacuating the stage and escorting the president and other dignitaries to safety, with shouts encouraging others to “stay down.”
Shortly after the incident, Trump applauded security officials’ quick response.
“Secret Service and law enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended,” he said in a post on social media.
He also stated that, while he initially advised that the event continue, final choices will be determined by security officials, adding that the evening’s schedule had been considerably disturbed.
Organizers later announced that the president would speak to the press, with intentions to reschedule the event within 30 days.
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner is an annual meeting of journalists, political officials, and public personalities that is often regarded as a watershed moment in American press freedom.
As of press time, authorities had yet to reveal comprehensive information regarding the suspect or any casualties from the incident.
