Cole Allen, a 31-year-old computer scientist from California, has been identified as the man accused of opening fire at the Washington Hilton Hotel during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday.
Allen, who graduated from the California Institute of Technology in 2017 with a degree in mechanical engineering, worked as an educator and game developer. Federal records show he pursued a master’s degree in computer science from California State University, Dominguez Hills, graduating in May 2025.
His professional background included summer research at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in 2014, where he focused on astrophysics-related projects. Allen also developed physics-based video games, including titles released on the Steam gaming platform.
What Happened at the Dinner
According to authorities, Allen rushed a U.S. Secret Service checkpoint at the event while carrying multiple weapons. He opened fire on a Secret Service officer, striking the officer’s ballistic vest.
Secret Service agents returned fire during the confrontation. Allen was not struck by gunfire but was transported to a hospital, while the injured officer was also hospitalized, officials said.
United States Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro announced that Allen faces two counts of using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon. Additional charges are expected.
High-Profile Attendees Evacuated
President Donald Trump was immediately removed from the venue by the U.S. Secret Service, along with First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Multiple Cabinet members present at the dinner were also evacuated.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt were among the senior officials rushed out of the Washington Hilton. FBI Director Kash Patel and White House Communications Director Steven Cheung were also in attendance.
Initial reports from the White House press pool indicated the president remained at the hotel shortly after the incident, with officials stating Trump would return to the dinner.
Background Information
Allen worked for C2 Education beginning in March 2020 and was recognized as Teacher of the Month in December 2024. Federal Election Commission records show he made a $25 contribution to then-Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 election cycle.
His LinkedIn profile listed projects involving offensive and defensive robotic systems developed during his time at the California Institute of Technology. He also created a game titled “Bohrdom,” which he described as combining racing mechanics with bullet-dodging gameplay.
This story has been updated. CNN’s reporting team contributed to this report.
