A late-night shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner caused panic and forced an immediate evacuation of attendees at the Washington Hilton, leaving several high-profile guests visibly shaken, including Erika Kirk.
The incident occurred shortly after 8:30 p.m. ET on April 25, when a 31-year-old man from California opened fire in an upper level of the hotel. Authorities confirmed the suspect was quickly apprehended and taken into custody following the rapid response of security personnel.
According to officials, one Secret Service agent sustained a non-fatal gunshot wound that was stopped by protective gear and is expected to recover. US President Donald Trump later confirmed the agent was “doing great.” No other attendees, including Vice President JD Vance and First Lady Melania Trump, were injured.
Eyewitness footage shared by CNN journalist Sara Sidner showed Erika Kirk being escorted out of the venue in tears. Visibly distressed, she was heard saying, “I just want to go home,” as security guided attendees to safety. Later, FBI Director Kash Patel was seen consoling her, according to multiple reports.
Erika Kirk, who attended the event as a guest of Fox News, has faced repeated trauma linked to political violence. Her late husband, Charlie Kirk, was killed in September 2025 while speaking at Utah Valley University.
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During the chaos, guests at the dinner reportedly hid under tables as law enforcement secured the building and neutralized the threat. The sudden evacuation turned one of Washington’s most high-profile media events into a scene of confusion and fear.
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner, traditionally a gathering of journalists, politicians, and public figures, was effectively halted following the attack. Organizers have not yet confirmed whether the event will be rescheduled, although President Trump has suggested it could be held within 30 days.
Security concerns have intensified in the aftermath, particularly given the presence of senior political figures and large crowds. Investigations are ongoing into the suspect’s motives and how he was able to access the venue.
Authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing threat, but federal agencies are reviewing security protocols for major public events in Washington, DC. The incident has reignited debate over safety measures at high-profile political gatherings in the United States.