Watch: Trump hides under table, Melania panics after shots fired at White House Correspondents’ Dinner, video goes viral
Eyewitness accounts and videos circulating on social media show that as soon as gunshots were heard, Secret Service agents acted quickly. They immediately rushed into action, took former President Donald Trump off the stage, and moved him to a safe location. At the same time, security teams used SOS lights to alert the guests present at the venue.
Melania Trump’s Reaction Goes Viral
The sound of gunfire reportedly came from a room located just above the dinner hall. In the videos, Melania Trump can be seen looking concerned and reacting to something in the crowd. As the shots rang out, panic spread among the guests. Many people tried to protect themselves by hiding under tables, while hotel staff and waiters were seen running toward exits.
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#WATCH | US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump rushed out of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner after shots were reportedly fired at the event.
(Source: Unrestricted Pool via Reuters) pic.twitter.com/Z2nDjWzWW0
— ANI (@ANI) April 26, 2026
Multiple Loud Shots Heard
A Reuters photographer confirmed hearing 4 to 6 loud bangs inside the hotel. According to a Trump aide and reports by CNN, the former President is completely safe. Following the incident, Trump announced that the dinner would be held again.
Top Leaders Moved to Safety
An eyewitness said that several senior officials present at the dinner were also safely evacuated. Security personnel instructed JD Vance, RFK Jr., Doug Burgum, and Marco Rubio to lie down on the ground for safety before escorting them out. Other cabinet members were also taken out of the hotel without harm.
Hotel Evacuated After Incident
After reports of the shooting, the Washington Hilton Hotel was evacuated. Police asked people gathered outside to move back. However, it is still unclear what the attacker’s motive was and how they managed to bring a weapon into the hotel room.
Also read: Donald Trump evacuated after ‘loud bangs’ heard at White House Correspondents’ Dinner: What exactly happened?