An unidentified individual opened fire at an event of the White House Correspondents’ Association held at the Washington Hilton Hotel on April 25, prompting a rapid evacuation of all attendees, including President Donald Trump and members of his administration.
Secret Service personnel swiftly evacuated the president and First Lady Melania Trump from the hotel following initial reports of loud noises in the hall. Later it was confirmed that an unknown person had fired shots during the gathering. The event attracted approximately 2,600 people. Eyewitnesses described Melania Trump expressing clear concern as the evacuation unfolded.
According to journalist Caitlin Collins, the shooter was eliminated shortly after the incident. President Trump later announced the arrest of the individual responsible. In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised the Secret Service and law enforcement for their “excellent job,” adding he had “recommended that ‘the show be allowed to continue.’”
Administration representatives and the Secret Service confirmed that President Trump, Melania Trump, and Vice President J. D. Vance—present at the reception and escorted out by security—remain safe. No administration officials were reported injured following the incident.
