Multiple reports indicate that shots were fired in the lobby of the Washington Hilton Hotel during the annual correspondents' dinner, sending guests scrambling for cover. Security personnel evacuated the venue while others hid under tables and chairs, according to major media reports. The suspected shooter was arrested, major media outlets confirmed.
Several world leaders condemned the shooting. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said political violence has no place in democracy and expressed relief that guests were unharmed. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that violence has no place in a democracy and must be condemned without reservation. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called the incident absolutely terrible, writing on X that violence and threats against politicians and journalists undermine democracy and must never be accepted. He added that we know nothing about the underlying causes, but that it is equally terrible under all circumstances and that such things must not happen. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the security personnel and law enforcement for their rapid response.
We threw ourselves under the tables.
US political figures also reacted. Senator Lindsey Graham said the current era generates an unprecedented stream of threats against President Trump and other government officials, and praised the security personnel who protected the guests. Democrat Nancy Pelosi said it is a great relief that the president, first lady, and all participants are safe after a frightening act of violence inside the venue.
Weijia Jiang, CBS News correspondent and chair of the association organizing the dinner, sat next to President Trump at the head table and fled behind him when shots were fired, according to major media reports. Jiang said no one should have to feel that fear and no one should be afraid to be in a public place. Several Swedish journalists were present during the dramatic shooting. Sveriges Radio's Ginna Lindberg said they threw themselves under the tables. SVT's US correspondent Sofia Yohannes was also at the dinner, major media reported. There are reports that the shooter was targeting individuals within the administration, though this has not been confirmed.
The motive of the shooter remains unknown, and it is unclear whether anyone was injured. The number of shots fired has not been confirmed, nor have specific security measures been detailed. The suspect has not been identified or charged publicly.