An armed man attempted to force his way into the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on April 25, 2026, prompting the evacuation of President Donald Trump, the First Lady, lawmakers, and hundreds of journalists from the Washington Hilton.
The annual gala was roughly 20 minutes underway when the security breach occurred. Federal authorities said the suspect tried to breach a secured checkpoint and advance toward the main ballroom before encountering U.S. Secret Service agents.
What Happened
Investigators identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, a teacher and video game developer with a degree from the California Institute of Technology. Allen was carrying a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives when he rushed the security perimeter, officials said.
Secret Service agents intercepted Allen in the hotel lobby before he could reach the crowded ballroom. A violent struggle ensued, during which gunfire erupted and one Secret Service agent was struck at close range.
The agent’s ballistic vest prevented fatal injuries, and the officer was transported to a nearby hospital in stable condition. Allen sustained minor injuries and was taken into federal custody.
The Response
Security teams immediately ordered a full evacuation of the venue as heavily armed officers swept the hotel to ensure no additional threats remained. Although organizers initially considered resuming the evening, the White House Correspondents’ Association ultimately canceled the event, citing ongoing security concerns.
President Trump praised the Secret Service’s response, saying