Karoline Leavitt Said There Would Be “Shots Fired” at Trump’s Dinner — Then Gunfire Erupted

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt made an unexpected remark on the red carpet before the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, saying President Donald Trump’s speech would be entertaining and that there would be “some shots fired” in the room. Minutes later, actual gunfire erupted near the Washington Hilton, forcing Trump, first lady Melania Trump, Leavitt and other officials to evacuate.

Authorities apprehended a 31-year-old California man in connection with the incident. According to the report, he faces two firearm-related charges and one count of assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon. A Secret Service agent was shot during the exchange, but Trump later confirmed the agent was recovering in hospital and that the protective vest had done its job.

The incident came just as Leavitt was preparing to step away from her duties ahead of the birth of her second child. She had told reporters the previous day that she expected to be away for some time. Instead, following the shooting, she returned to her press duties and confirmed that Trump would hold a news conference later that evening.

Trump later said he was “honored to be a target,” referring to the threats he has faced in recent years. The dinner, attended by prominent political figures and media personalities, was thrown into chaos by the incident. CNN also reported that Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, was seen crying and telling aides she wanted to leave.