Washington: US President Donald J. Trump tripped while being hurried from the stage on Saturday night (Sunday IST) as security details swarmed the ballroom of the Washington Hilton, ending the White House Correspondents' Dinner in a scene of violent upheaval.

As tactical teams with weapons drawn occupied the stage where the president had been seated, guests in formal attire sought cover under tables. Outside, a massive police presence converged on the hotel while helicopters monitored the site from above.

Despite the fall, the president later issued a reassuring statement via social media. "Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended," Trump said. He confirmed his intention to hold a briefing at the White House shortly, noting, "Law Enforcement has requested that we leave the premises."

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The president further clarified the status of his administration, stating, "The First Lady, plus the Vice President, and all Cabinet members, are in perfect condition." He indicated plans to return to the event within a month to make up for the disruption.

Chaos During the Gala

The gunfire erupted following the welcoming remarks and during the dinner service, moments before the president was scheduled to address the audience. The Secret Service confirmed a suspect was in custody following a shooting near the primary security checkpoint.

Among the officials evacuated was Cabinet member Mehmet Oz, who reportedly remarked, "shots fired upstairs" as security personnel ushered him out of the building. Initially, organisers informed the attendees that the gala would proceed, but the event was ultimately postponed.

This marked the first time Trump attended the annual dinner while in office. Although every president for the past century has traditionally attended, Trump had previously declined, often citing his adversarial relationship with the press. The White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) extended the invitation this year despite his frequent criticisms of the media.

The gathering, often referred to as the "Nerd Prom," serves as a scholarship fundraiser for journalists. While the evening typically features a comedian poking fun at the commander in chief, no such performer was booked for this year’s program.

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A History of Security Threats

Saturday’s violence follows a string of threats against the president. In 2024, Trump survived an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a gunman killed a spectator and grazed the president’s ear. Months later, an armed individual was apprehended at Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach after an agent spotted a rifle barrel in the foliage.

The site of Saturday's incident, the Washington Hilton, holds a grim place in presidential history. It was the same location where President Ronald Reagan was shot and wounded by a would-be assassin in 1981.

With inputs from AFP