Shooting Disrupts White House Correspondents’ Dinner; Trump and First Lady Evacuated

Cover photo: Suspect 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen/Donald Trump Truth Social

WASHINGTON DC – Gunfire at the Washington Hilton disrupted the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on 25 April 2026, forcing the immediate evacuation of Donald and Melania Trump. The US Secret Service removed the couple from the ballroom as guests sought cover.

The Metropolitan Police Department identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California. Interim Police Chief Jeffrey Carroll stated that Allen allegedly approached a security checkpoint in the hotel lobby armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives.

Law enforcement officers exchanged fire with the suspect before tackling him. Allen was taken into custody without injury. Preliminary investigations suggest he acted alone and may have been staying at the hotel.

One Secret Service agent was injured during the exchange but was protected from a serious wound by a ballistic vest.

In a statement from the White House, the President commended law enforcement for their response and announced the gala would be rescheduled within 30 days.

The FBI and the US Attorney for the District of Columbia are lead investigators on the case. Allen faces federal charges, including assault on a federal officer and the use of a firearm during a crime of violence.