A major security scare shook Washington, D.C., on the night of April 25, 2026, when an armed man tried to force his way toward the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton. President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, senior officials, lawmakers, and hundreds of journalists were evacuated after the incident.
The annual gala, often called the “Nerd Prom,” had been underway only about 20 minutes after the president and first lady arrived. Federal authorities said the suspect rushed a secured checkpoint and tried to advance toward the main ballroom before Secret Service agents stopped him.
Investigators identified the man as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, a teacher, video-game developer, and California Institute of Technology graduate. Officials said he was carrying a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives when he charged the security perimeter.
Agents intercepted him in the hotel lobby before he reached the crowded ballroom. A violent struggle followed, and gunfire erupted. One Secret Service agent was struck at close range; officials said a ballistic vest prevented fatal injury. The officer was taken to a hospital and reported in stable condition. Allen suffered minor injuries and was taken into federal custody.
Security teams immediately 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 rest of the evening, citing ongoing security concerns. Officials said the dinner would be rescheduled with tighter security.
President Trump praised the Secret Service for acting quickly and credited the agency with preventing a far more serious outcome. He condemned the suspect’s actions and supported the decision to put safety first.
Federal investigators opened a broad inquiry into Allen’s background, possible motives, and recent movements. Authorities searched his California home and reviewed writings he reportedly sent to family members shortly before the incident. Investigators said they believed he acted alone and found no immediate evidence of a wider plot or continuing threat.
The attempted attack intensified scrutiny of security around major political events in the capital. Officials said they would review how an armed suspect came so close to one of Washington’s most closely guarded annual gatherings. Allen later faced federal charges, including attempted assassination of the president.
