**WASHINGTON** — A gunman attempted to breach security at the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner on April 25, 2026, prompting the rapid evacuation of President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance and other senior officials from the Washington Hilton.
The incident occurred shortly after the dinner began. Guests, including hundreds of journalists and administration officials, were inside the ballroom when gunfire erupted near a security checkpoint on an upper level of the hotel. Authorities identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California. Investigators say Allen, who had checked into the hotel as a guest, charged through a magnetometer screening area armed with a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives.
Secret Service officers confronted Allen before he could reach the stairs leading to the ballroom. Shots were exchanged. One agent was struck in the chest; the round was stopped by his ballistic vest, and the officer survived. Allen was injured in the confrontation but was not shot. He was taken into custody at the scene. No fatalities or injuries to guests were reported.
Secret Service personnel immediately escorted the president, vice president and other protected individuals from the area. Guests were ordered to evacuate or shelter in place while authorities secured the hotel and searched for additional threats. The evening’s program was canceled.
Federal prosecutors charged Allen with attempting to assassinate the president, along with federal firearms and related offenses. Officials said he had traveled by train from California in the days leading up to the event. Investigators continue to examine his background, online activity and a note he allegedly sent to family members shortly before the attack as they assess motive.
The episode has renewed scrutiny of security arrangements at high-profile political gatherings in the capital. Although multiple layers of protection surrounded the dinner, the fact that an armed individual reached a checkpoint at an event attended by the nation’s top leaders has drawn questions from security experts.
President Trump later praised the Secret Service and local law enforcement for their rapid response, saying their actions prevented a far more serious outcome. The investigation remains active.
