A gunman attempted to breach security at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington on Saturday, April 25, 2026, prompting the evacuation of President Donald Trump and other administration officials.
The incident occurred shortly after 8:30 p.m. as the annual black-tie gala was beginning at the Washington Hilton’s ballroom. The event brings together journalists, politicians, and celebrities for networking and political satire.
What Happened
Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, rushed a security checkpoint on the Terrace Level carrying a 12-gauge shotgun, a .38-caliber semi-automatic pistol, and multiple knives, according to law enforcement and surveillance footage. Allen fired his shotgun, striking one Secret Service agent in the chest at close range.
The agent, protected by a bulletproof vest, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Secret Service agents returned fire and tackled Allen in the hotel lobby, where he suffered minor injuries during the struggle.
President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other administration officials were swiftly evacuated from the ballroom. Trump later praised the Secret Service for their “fantastic job” in neutralizing the threat before it could reach attendees.
The Investigation
Interim D.C. Police Chief Jeffrey Carroll and federal officials characterized Allen as a lone actor with no apparent ties to a broader conspiracy. Prosecutors charged him with attempting to assassinate the president and assaulting a federal officer, with a four-count indictment returned by a grand jury in early May.
Allen, described as an academic tutor, video game developer, and mechanical engineer, had reportedly expressed opposition to Trump administration policies in writings sent to family members before the attack. Federal authorities searched his California residence.
The Aftermath
Hundreds of journalists, politicians, and guests inside the ballroom took cover under tables when gunfire erupted. Organizers canceled the event around 9:45 p.m. and have rescheduled it for within the next 30 days.
The breach has prompted an immediate review of security protocols for high-profile events in Washington. Trump noted a surprising sense of unity among those present, with journalists and politicians from across the political spectrum experiencing shared danger.
The incident marks one of the most serious security breaches at a Washington political gathering in recent memory. No other injuries were reported among attendees.
This story has been updated. CNN’s reporting team contributed to this report.
