A man opened fire at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night, carrying multiple weapons including a shotgun, handgun, and knives before being stopped by U.S. Secret Service.
Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, rushed a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton where President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Cabinet members were attending the annual event. Gunfire erupted near the ballroom entrance as guests and security personnel responded to the threat.
What Happened
Law enforcement officials said Allen allegedly assembled a long weapon in an unsecured area near the venue entrance before approaching the event. A volunteer working nearby told reporters the man appeared to remove parts from a bag and construct the weapon shortly before opening fire.
Witnesses described chaos as attendees took cover under tables while security personnel moved toward the threat. Several guests initially believed the noise came from falling dishes before realizing shots had been fired.
A federal officer was struck in a bullet-resistant vest during the confrontation, but the protective gear likely prevented more serious injury. The officer is expected to recover.
The Response
U.S. Secret Service agents quickly subdued Allen and took him into custody at the scene. He was transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation before charges were announced.
Trump was safely evacuated from the ballroom by Secret Service personnel along with other senior officials. He later spoke with reporters and praised the rapid response of security personnel.
Federal prosecutors said Allen is expected to face serious charges, including firearm-related offenses and assault on a federal officer. Investigators are continuing to examine a possible motive and whether the dinner or specific attendees were targeted.
Background on Suspect
Allen is a computer scientist from Torrance, California who previously appeared in a 2017 report about tech startups developing innovations for seniors. He was recognized for designing a wheelchair brake lock intended to prevent unintended movement, calling it a solution to standard braking system limitations.
Authorities recovered a manifesto Allen sent to his family before the shooting. The document contained inaccurate claims about Trump and expressed anti-Christian sentiments, according to law enforcement.
What This Means
The White House Correspondents’ Association announced the dinner would be postponed and rescheduled following the shooting. Questions are being raised about hotel security, screening procedures, and protections surrounding the major event attended by senior political leaders.
Allen had checked into a hotel room the night before after traveling by Amtrak from California to Washington, according to reports. Investigators continue reviewing how the suspect approached the venue while carrying multiple weapons.
This story has been updated. CNN’s reporting team contributed to this report.