New footage shows how Trump dinner gunman charged through security in four seconds

May 1, 2026

A 31-year-old man named Cole Tomas Allen has been charged with attempting to assassinate President Trump at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner held at the Washington Hilton. Newly released surveillance footage shows Allen allegedly shedding a coat that concealed a shotgun before sprinting through a security checkpoint in approximately four seconds while Trump and other officials attended the event one floor below. Prosecutors claim Allen fired at a Secret Service agent who was protected by a ballistic vest and returned fire, though defense lawyers dispute whether their client discharged his weapon.

Who is affected

Cole Tomas Allen (the defendant)
President Donald Trump
Vice-President JD Vance
Cabinet members and White House officials
White House Correspondents' Association dinner attendees
A Secret Service officer who was struck in the ballistic vest
Secret Service agents and security personnel at the scene

What action is being taken

Prosecutors are holding Allen in custody and pursuing charges against him
Ballistics experts are investigating whether the Secret Service officer was hit by the suspect's bullet or by friendly fire
The US justice department is presenting evidence including CCTV footage

Why it matters

This incident represents a serious security breach at a high-profile event attended by the President, Vice-President, and other top government officials, raising concerns about protective measures for such gatherings. The attack attempt demonstrates vulnerabilities in security protocols despite the presence of metal detectors and numerous security agents. The incident also highlights ongoing questions about the circumstances of the shooting, including disputed claims about whether the suspect fired his weapon and the source of the bullet that struck the officer's vest.

What's next

Allen has not yet entered a plea
A judge will decide whether to hold Allen in custody pending trial
Allen faces trial on multiple charges including attempted assassination, transportation of a firearm between states to commit a felony, and discharging a firearm in a crime of violence

Read full article from source: BBC