By By Elizabeth Ugbo
A suspect identified as Cole Tomas Allen allegedly opened fire on Saturday night at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington, where US President Donald Trump and other dignitaries were present. Authorities say the incident occurred around 8:36 pm, when the gunman forced his way through a security checkpoint, prompting an exchange of gunfire before officers arrested him.
Incident at High-Profile Media Gala
Gunshots rang out shortly after the welcoming speech at the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. The event drew hundreds of guests dressed in black tie attire.
Immediately, security operatives moved in. Tactical teams rushed toward the stage where Donald Trump sat alongside First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
As a result, officials evacuated all dignitaries swiftly. Guests took cover under tables before security escorted them out through the hotel lobby. Authorities later confirmed that no attendees sustained injuries.
How Security Forces Responded
According to officials, the suspect acted alone. He forced his way through a checkpoint near the ballroom, triggering a confrontation with law enforcement.
Jeffrey Carroll said officers intercepted the suspect during the exchange. He confirmed that the gunman carried a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives.
During the incident, a Secret Service officer sustained injuries after a bullet struck his vest. However, medical teams treated him at a hospital, and he remains in stable condition.
Authorities later took the suspect into custody without injuries. They transported him to a hospital for evaluation before placing him under arrest.
Charges and Court Appearance
US Attorney Jeanine Pirro confirmed that the suspect will appear in federal court on Monday.
Prosecutors filed two charges against him. These include using a firearm during a violent crime and assaulting a federal officer with a dangerous weapon.
Suspect Identity and Background
Although authorities have not officially confirmed his identity, several US media outlets identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California.
A LinkedIn profile under the name Cole Allen describes him as a mechanical engineer, computer scientist, game developer and teacher.
In addition, records show that a person with the same name graduated from California Institute of Technology in 2017. A test-prep company, C2 Education, also featured an individual with that name as “teacher of the month” in December 2024.
Trump Reacts to Shooting
Following the incident, Donald Trump described the suspect as a “lone wolf.” He added that investigators have yet to determine a clear motive.
However, he suggested that the gunman appeared mentally unstable.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities believe the suspect acted alone and may have been staying at the hotel. Investigators continue to examine his background and possible motives.
Meanwhile, security agencies have increased vigilance at major public events across Washington.
