On April 25, 2026, there was another alleged assassination attempt toward United States President Donald Trump. Gun shots were fired near the main security area for the annual White House correspondents dinner at the Washington Hilton hotel in Washington D.C. The venue was immediately evacuated and while full evacuation wasn’t possible, no civilian injuries occurred.
President Trump, his wife, First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President JD Vance were safely escorted out of the building by the Secret Service while other politicians, civilians and reporters were sheltered under tables and in safe rooms being protected by security working the event.
The prime suspect being investigated is Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old male tutor for C2 Education in Torrance, California. He was also a self-employed indie game developer. He has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from CalTech and a master’s in computer science from CalTech.
Allen was reportedly armed with a shotgun, handgun and multiple knives. Officials said the firearms were legally obtained in California. Security footage from that day shows Allen running through the hallway of the Washington Hilton before security drew their weapons.
An affidavit reported that a United States Secret Service officer wearing a bulletproof vest was shot once in the chest. The officer returned fire multiple times toward Allen. Allen was not shot and taken into custody at the scene. The officer was not seriously harmed and was described to be in “great shape”.
President Trump would later post the security footage and photographs to social media showing Allen, shirtless, handcuffed and face down with officers around him.
Time reports that prosecutors charged Allen with attempting to assassinate President Trump, illegally transporting a firearm during a crime of violence (a charge that carries a potential life sentence). He was also expected to face charges including assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon.
In the end, Allen denied bail and remained there awaiting his trial. During his appearance in federal court, he did not enter a plea after authorities say he ran through a magnetometer at the Washington Hilton.
“The government’s case is based upon inferences drawn about Allen’s intent that raise more questions than answers,” CBC reported.
