WASHINGTON D.C. April 26, 2026 — A 31-year-old California man armed with a shotgun, handgun, and multiple knives charged a Secret Service checkpoint at the Washington Hilton on Saturday night, sparking gunfire and forcing the immediate evacuation of President Donald J. Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and other senior officials during the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) Dinner.
The suspect, identified by law enforcement as Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, was subdued by Secret Service agents and taken into custody alive. One Secret Service officer was struck by gunfire at close range but was saved by his bulletproof vest and is reported to be in good condition. No other injuries were reported among attendees or law enforcement.
Surveillance video released by the White House shows Allen sprinting past metal detectors in the hotel lobby area shortly after 8:36 p.m. as agents drew their weapons and responded. President Trump later shared the footage and photos of the suspect in custody on social media, praising the agents’ swift action.
“A man charged a security checkpoint armed with multiple weapons, and he was taken down by some very brave members of Secret Service,” Trump stated in the official White House post.
Speaking at a White House press briefing afterward, Trump confirmed the officer’s quick recovery and described the suspect as a “sick person.” He emphasized that the situation was contained rapidly, preventing any harm to those inside the ballroom. The annual black-tie event, attended by journalists, politicians, and celebrities, was canceled as authorities locked down the scene.
Interim Washington, D.C., Police Chief Jeffery W. Carroll confirmed Allen was a registered guest at the Hilton. His hotel room has been secured as part of the ongoing investigation. Federal charges, including assault on a federal officer and use of a firearm during a crime of violence, are expected to be filed Monday. Authorities said there is no indication of additional suspects at this time.
Allen, who holds a mechanical engineering degree from Caltech (2017) and a recent master’s in computer science, has no prior criminal record according to preliminary reports. He previously worked as a tutor and indie game developer.
The incident echoes past security concerns at the Hilton, site of the 1981 assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan. Secret Service and FBI teams responded within seconds, rushing Trump and his entourage off the stage as guests ducked under tables.
President Trump and his family returned safely to the White House. The investigation remains active, with officials urging the public to report any relevant information.
This is a developing story. Life News Agency will provide updates as more details emerge.
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