Shots Fired at White House Correspondents' Dinner

A shocking security scare just occurred at the White House Correspondents' Dinner after gunfire erupted inside the hotel hosting the high-profile gathering.

According to early reports on Saturday, April 25, multiple shots were fired in the lobby at the Washington Hilton in Washington DC while President Donald Trump and several top administration officials were seated inside the ballroom. TMZ reports that the room reportedly included the president, first lady Melania Trump, vice president JD Vance, and multiple cabinet members attending the annual event.

Authorities said the suspected shooter is dead, reportedly after being confronted by a United States Secret Service agent. No other injuries have been reported.

Inside the venue, guests were left stunned as confusion spread through the room. The outlet reports that members of the media and attendees reportedly ducked under tables while others tried to figure out what was happening outside the ballroom.

The event had been moving forward normally moments earlier, with Weijia Jiang, president of the White House Correspondents' Association and a CBS News correspondent, delivering welcome remarks before inviting guests to begin dinner.

Following the incident, President Trump and others were seen leaving the ballroom as security protocols were activated. It remains unclear whether he plans to return.

An update from TMZ later indicated the dinner is expected to resume shortly, despite the dramatic interruption.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavittwas also at the event despite being nine months pregnant. Her attendance comes just one day after announcing her maternity leave. It is not currently clear if she has also evacuated the hotel.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available…

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This story was originally published April 25, 2026 at 9:17 PM.