A tense moment unfolded at the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington after gunfire was reported near the venue, even as guests were being served.
The event, a long-running tradition since 1921 that also features awards for journalists, was held at the ground-floor hall of a Hilton hotel. US President Donald Trump, Vice President Vance and others were among those in attendance.
According to reports, a person ran toward an area near the security screening zone outside the hall and opened fire. Witness accounts said the sound of five or six shots was heard, prompting panic inside.
Guests reportedly took cover under tables and chairs, while Trump and his wife Melania sheltered on the stage. Secret Service personnel then swiftly moved them to a safer location.
Video clips circulating on social media drew attention to one attendee—artist Michael Glanz—who remained seated and continued eating salad. Glanz later said he felt protected by the heavy security presence, could not lie on the floor due to back pain, and did not want to sit or lie on a dirty floor while wearing new clothes.
