An armed man tried to force his way into the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton on the night of April 25, 2026, prompting the emergency evacuation of President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, senior officials, lawmakers, and hundreds of journalists.
The annual gala, long nicknamed the “Nerd Prom,” had been underway for only about 20 minutes after the president and first lady arrived when the incident began. Federal authorities said 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, tried to push through a secured checkpoint and move toward the main ballroom. Allen, described as a teacher, video game developer, and California Institute of Technology graduate, was carrying a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives, officials said.
U.S. Secret Service agents intercepted him in the hotel lobby before he could reach the crowded ballroom. A violent struggle followed, and gunfire erupted. One agent was struck at close range; officials said the officer’s ballistic vest prevented fatal injuries. The wounded agent was taken to a nearby hospital and reported in stable condition. Allen sustained minor injuries and was taken into federal custody.
Security teams ordered a full evacuation as heavily armed officers swept the hotel for additional threats. Organizers briefly considered resuming the program, but the White House Correspondents’ Association canceled the evening, citing ongoing security concerns. Officials said the dinner is expected to be rescheduled with significantly tighter measures.
President Trump praised the Secret Service, saying its response prevented what could have been a far more serious tragedy. He condemned the attack and supported the decision to put the safety of everyone in the room first.
Federal investigators opened a broad inquiry into Allen’s background, possible motives, and recent activities. Authorities searched his California residence and reviewed writings reportedly sent to family members shortly before the incident. Investigators believe he acted alone and have found no immediate evidence of a wider plot or continuing threat.
The attempt has sharpened scrutiny of security around major political events in Washington. Officials are expected to review how an armed suspect got so close to one of the capital’s most heavily protected annual gatherings, and what changes may be needed before the dinner is held again.
