Federal Charges Filed in Attempted Assassination of President Trump at DC Gala
A 31-year-old California man faces federal charges after an attempted assassination of President Donald Trump during the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner on April 25, 2026. The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, was apprehended at the Washington Hilton after charging a security checkpoint and discharging a firearm.
The Department of Justice announced on April 27, 2026, that Allen has been arraigned in U.S. District Court. Federal authorities allege that Allen traveled across the country with deadly weapons and a premeditated plan to target the President and members of his administration.
The Breach at the Washington Hilton
The incident occurred on Saturday, April 25, at the Washington Hilton, where the White House Correspondents’ Association was hosting its annual black-tie event. According to investigators, Allen bypassed security and charged a checkpoint located one floor above the ballroom where President Trump was attending the dinner.
Video evidence captured Allen running toward the checkpoint armed with a shotgun and other weapons. During the confrontation, a U.S. Secret Service Uniformed Division officer was struck by gunfire. Law enforcement officials have since clarified that the officer was not hit by “friendly fire” from other agents, but was instead struck by a round fired from Allen’s shotgun.
The officer was wearing a ballistic vest at the time of the shooting, which prevented serious injury. Sources familiar with the investigation indicate the round likely struck a cellphone tucked inside a pocket of the bulletproof vest. The officer was transported to a hospital and released over the weekend. In response to the attack, the officer returned fire, discharging five rounds before Allen fell to the floor and was arrested at the scene.
Profile of the Suspect: Cole Tomas Allen
Cole Tomas Allen, a teacher and engineer from Torrance, California, is now the center of a wide-ranging federal investigation. Authorities have recovered several electronic devices from Allen, including a phone and laptop found in his guest room at the Washington Hilton, as well as desktop and laptop computers from his residence in California. Investigators are currently analyzing these devices to determine the full extent of his planning, and motives.
Further evidence suggests that Allen documented his preparations, with reports indicating he took selfies and photos with a knife in his hotel room prior to the attack.
Federal Charges and Legal Proceedings
The Department of Justice has charged Allen by complaint with three primary federal offenses:
- Attempt to assassinate the President of the United States
- Transportation of a firearm and ammunition in interstate commerce with intent to commit a felony
- Discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized the severity of the crime, stating, “Cole Allen now faces the full weight of federal justice.” Blanche credited the “courage and professionalism” of the responding law enforcement officers for ensuring the safety of the President, administration officials, and all dinner attendees.
FBI Director Kash Patel added that the evidence is “abundantly clear” that Allen traveled to Washington D.C. Specifically to assassinate the President and target members of the Trump administration. Prosecutors are currently arguing that Allen should remain in custody until his trial.
Key Takeaways: The April 25 Assassination Attempt
- Location: The attack took place at a security checkpoint one floor above the ballroom at the Washington Hilton in Washington D.C.
- Weaponry: The suspect utilized a shotgun and was found with other weapons.
- Casualties: One Secret Service officer was struck in his ballistic vest; no other injuries were reported.
- Suspect Background: Cole Tomas Allen, 31, is a teacher and engineer from Torrance, California.
- Legal Status: Allen is charged with attempted presidential assassination and federal weapons violations.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation continues, the FBI and its interagency partners are focusing on the digital forensics of Allen’s recovered devices to identify any potential co-conspirators or additional targets. The case highlights the ongoing challenges of securing high-profile political events against “lone-wolf” actors and underscores the critical role of ballistic equipment in protecting federal agents during active shooter scenarios.
