Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed concern over the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, calling the incident “disturbing” while welcoming reports that US President Donald Trump is safe.
In a statement shared on X, he expressed relief that President Donald Trump, Melania Trump, and other attendees were unharmed.
“My thoughts and prayers are with him, and I wish him continued safety and well-being,” the prime minister said.
The reaction comes after chaos unfolded at the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.
Gunfire erupted near a security checkpoint, sending panic through the venue and forcing the evacuation of top US officials.
President Donald Trump and the first lady were quickly escorted out of the Washington Hilton hotel by Secret Service agents.
Attacker opens fire, officer injured
Officials said a man armed with a shotgun opened fire during the incident.
A Secret Service officer was struck, but survived as the bullet hit a protective vest. Trump later confirmed the officer was in “good shape.”
Authorities also confirmed that the suspect has been arrested and remains alive.
Chaos inside the ballroom
The sound of gunshots caused immediate panic among the roughly 2,600 attendees present at the event.
Guests ducked for cover as shouts of “Get down!” echoed across the ballroom, while waitstaff fled and security teams moved to protect officials.
Senior cabinet members, including Marco Rubio, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Doug Burgum, were pushed to the ground before being evacuated.
