‘Just Want To Go Home’: Erika Kirk Shaken, In Tears After Shooting At Trump's Dinner Event | Video

Last Updated:April 26, 2026, 09:13 IST

Gunfire near a security checkpoint disrupted the White House Correspondents Dinner, Trump and guests were evacuated, a suspect was detained.

Chaos and fear gripped the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night (local time) after gunfire disrupted the high-profile gathering attended by US President Donald Trump, other politicians, journalists, and celebrities.

Among those most visibly affected was Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, who was abruptly escorted out of the venue in tears. Citing an eyewitness account reported by The New York Post, she appeared deeply shaken during the evacuation, repeatedly saying, “I just want to go home. I just want to go home."

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Trump Evacuated After Shooting Incident

The incident unfolded as Trump attended the black-tie event in Washington. Shots were reported near a security screening area outside the ballroom, triggering a swift response from the United States Secret Service. Trump was quickly removed from the stage while armed agents rushed through the hall, prompting guests to duck under tables amid the chaos. Follow for live updates

The same eyewitness described Robert F. Kennedy Jr. being carried out by his security team, with one guard on each side supporting him. His feet reportedly dragged along the floor, and he appeared disoriented — “delirious," in the witness’s words.

Authorities later confirmed that a suspect had been taken into custody. The Secret Service said the shooting occurred near the main security checkpoint, as tactical teams secured the venue and police flooded the area around the Washington Hilton Hotel. Helicopters were seen hovering overhead as the situation unfolded.

Trump Praises Secret Service For Swift Response 

In a statement posted on social media, Trump praised the response of security forces, saying, “Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended." He added, “Law Enforcement has requested that we leave the premises. The First Lady, plus the Vice President, and all Cabinet members, are in perfect condition."

Despite the disruption, Trump indicated that the event would be rescheduled within a month. He also claimed the suspect was armed with “multiple weapons," sharing an image of the individual being detained.

What began as a night of formal speeches and media engagement quickly turned into a tense evacuation, leaving attendees shaken.

News world ‘Just Want To Go Home’: Erika Kirk Shaken, In Tears After Shooting At Trump's Dinner Event | Video

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