WASHINGTON — An armed man rushed a security checkpoint at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on April 25, 2026, prompting the emergency evacuation of President Donald Trump and other senior officials from the Washington Hilton.
The incident occurred about 20 minutes after the annual event began. Law enforcement identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, a teacher and video game developer from Torrance, California. Allen was carrying a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives when he charged the checkpoint in an apparent attempt to reach the main ballroom.
Secret Service agents stopped him in the hotel lobby before he could enter the crowded event space. Gunfire erupted during the confrontation. Agents subdued Allen on the ground. One Secret Service officer was struck by a gunshot at close range; his protective vest prevented serious injury. The agent was taken to a nearby hospital and listed in stable condition. Allen sustained minor injuries.
Lawmakers, administration officials and journalists were evacuated as authorities secured the hotel. Organizers briefly considered restarting the program but canceled the remainder of the dinner.
President Trump later praised the Secret Service for its rapid response under pressure. Officials said the suspect never reached the ballroom where the president and other dignitaries were seated.
The White House Correspondents’ Association dinner is a high-profile annual gathering of journalists, officials and guests. Authorities have described the episode as a planned attempt that was halted at an outer security layer. Allen was taken into custody at the scene. Investigations into his motives and the precise sequence of shots continued in the days that followed.
