Reports indicate that a gunman has been captured following an alarming shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner held at the Washington Hilton Hotel. The event turned chaotic as President Trump and nearly all cabinet members were swiftly evacuated.
According to Fox News, the disturbance began shortly after the dinner commenced around 8:45 p.m. Eastern Time. The assailant, reportedly armed with a rifle, rushed toward a security checkpoint outside the venue, firing at least six shots during the chaos, as noted by CBS News.
The gunman was quickly neutralized by security forces.
Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the Secret Service, confirmed that both the agency and the D.C. Metropolitan Police are conducting investigations into the shooting. He stated that a suspect has been apprehended, with President Trump corroborating this information.
As reported by Fox News’ Sean Hannity, at least one Secret Service agent sustained a gunshot wound during the event. However, the agent’s protective gear reportedly prevented serious injury.
Witness accounts revealed that despite the high security at the outer checkpoint, which included mandatory screening, the shooter successfully navigated through. Hannity underscored the apparent failure in security measures.
Wolf Blitzer from CNN described his shock, recounting, “I happened to be a few feet from him as he was shooting. Of course, the first thing that went through my mind, is he trying to shoot me?”
Footage showed Secret Service agents rapidly securing the stage and ensuring the safety of President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other senior officials. Several congressional leaders were also evacuated promptly.
The venue was immediately locked down while attendees still inside the ballroom remained in place. Those outside, as well as pedestrians nearby, were warned to steer clear of the area.
Shortly after 8:54 p.m., it was announced that President Trump was unharmed and that the program would resume shortly. However, reports soon indicated that the event would not continue that evening due to security concerns.
Though President Trump expressed a desire to return and address the audience, at 9:40 p.m., it was announced that the event had been canceled. Trump is scheduled to hold a press conference later tonight around 10:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
NEW: EXCLUSIVE images via a @scrippsnews @EWScrippsCo staffer showing the suspected gunman at the 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner tackled to the ground by Secret Service at the Washington Hilton. pic.twitter.com/IwAy1EPJSb
— Nathaniel Reed (@ReedReports) April 26, 2026
