President Donald Trump was evacuated from the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton after gunfire erupted near the event, causing panic among attendees that included journalists, officials, and celebrities.

According to U.S. authorities, multiple shots were fired near a security screening area outside the ballroom where the high-profile event was taking place. Secret Service agents quickly removed the president and other senior officials from the venue. Trump was not injured.

A 31-year-old suspect from California was apprehended at the scene and is now in custody. Officials say the individual was armed with multiple weapons, including a shotgun and a handgun, and is believed to have acted alone.

During the incident, one Secret Service agent was struck by a bullet, though the injury was mitigated by a ballistic vest. The agent was taken to hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.

Witnesses described scenes of chaos inside the ballroom, with attendees ducking under tables as security personnel rushed to secure the area.

Following the evacuation, President Trump later addressed the media at the White House, praising law enforcement for their swift response and confirming that the suspect had been detained. He also called for national unity in the wake of the incident.