Washington, Apr 26 (V7N) – US President Donald Trump was briefly evacuated to a secure location after reports of possible gunfire-like sounds were heard near the venue of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., causing panic and heightened security response.
The incident took place on Saturday evening local time at the Washington Hilton Hotel, where the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner was scheduled to be held. President Trump and the First Lady were already present at the venue ahead of the formal program when the situation unfolded.
According to initial accounts from attendees and security personnel, sudden loud sounds resembling gunfire were heard from outside the hotel area shortly before the event began. The unexpected noise immediately triggered concern among guests, leading to confusion inside the ballroom.
Security teams quickly responded to the situation and activated protective protocols. President Trump was escorted out of the main venue to a secure location as a precautionary measure. Other officials and guests were also held inside secured areas while authorities assessed the situation.
Law enforcement agencies in Washington, D.C., moved swiftly to secure the surrounding area and investigate the source of the sounds. However, officials have not yet confirmed whether the noise was actually gunfire or caused by another source.
No injuries, damage, or arrests have been reported in connection with the incident so far. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact nature of the event and whether there was any security threat to the gathering.
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner is an annual high-profile event attended by senior government officials, journalists, and political figures, making it one of the most closely monitored security events in the US capital.
END/SMA/AJ/
Comment: