A late-night press conference will be held in approximately 30 minutes at the White House briefing room, President Donald Trump said, after law enforcement ordered the evacuation of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner following a shooting incident.
Trump said authorities requested that attendees leave the premises “consistent with protocol,” a directive being carried out immediately. He added that the first lady, the vice president and all Cabinet members are “in perfect condition.”
The president also said he has spoken with the White House Correspondents’ Association board organizing the event and that the dinner will be rescheduled within 30 days.
Earlier, the United States Secret Service said one individual is in custody following a shooting near the main security screening area. Officials confirmed that the president and all protectees are safe, while the condition of those involved remains unclear.
Witnesses inside the ballroom described scenes of panic, with journalists and guests ducking under tables as Secret Service agents rushed in, weapons drawn, and ordered the press pool to move back. Attendees have since begun leaving the venue amid a heavy police presence, with authorities continuing to secure the area.
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