CALIFORNIA April 26, 2026 — A 31-year-old California man identified as Cole Tomas Allen was taken into custody Saturday night after firing shots near a security checkpoint outside the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) Dinner at the Washington Hilton, authorities said.
President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other top officials were quickly evacuated from the ballroom and reported safe. No guests or staff were injured. One Secret Service officer was struck by gunfire but was protected by a bulletproof vest, officials confirmed. Allen, a Torrance resident who worked as a part-time teacher and amateur video game developer, acted alone and had checked into a hotel near the event, according to multiple law enforcement sources. He was heavily armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives when he attempted to breach the checkpoint. Secret Service agents tackled and subdued him before he could enter the main ballroom where hundreds of journalists, administration officials, and guests had gathered.
Allen, a Torrance resident who worked as a part-time teacher and amateur video game developer, acted alone and had checked into a hotel near the event, according to multiple law enforcement sources. He was heavily armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives when he attempted to breach the checkpoint. Secret Service agents tackled and subdued him before he could enter the main ballroom where hundreds of journalists, administration officials, and guests had gathered.
Federal prosecutors announced preliminary charges against Allen, including two counts of using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon. Terrorism-related charges are also being considered. Investigators said Allen told authorities after his arrest that he intended to target Trump administration officials.
Suspect’s Background
Public records and social media profiles consistent with Allen show he graduated from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) with a mechanical engineering degree in 2017 and earned a master’s degree in computer science in 2025. He worked as a tutor at a local learning center and pursued independent video game development projects. Neighbors described him as a quiet, unassuming resident with no prior public signs of extremism.
Law Enforcement Activity in Torrance
Early Sunday morning, heavily armed FBI agents and Torrance police executed search warrants at addresses linked to Allen in Torrance, deploying armored vehicles and tactical teams. Streets were cordoned off as authorities conducted a thorough investigation of the suspect’s residence and possible vehicles.
Fox News captured live footage of the ongoing operation, showing dozens of officers and law enforcement vehicles surrounding the property. Authorities have not released an official motive but continue to investigate whether Allen had any accomplices or online connections that may have influenced the attack. Officials emphasized there is no ongoing threat to public safety.
President Trump later released CCTV footage of the incident via social media and stated that he and his family were “in perfect condition.” White House officials praised the rapid response by Secret Service and local law enforcement.
The WHCA Dinner, traditionally a major annual event featuring journalists, politicians, and celebrities, was disrupted but resumed after the scene was secured.
Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments as the investigation proceeds. This is a developing story.
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