Suspected gunman at Washington press dinner identified as 31-year-old Californian

April 26, 2026

A 31-year-old California man named Cole Tomas Allen was arrested after opening fire inside Washington's Hilton hotel during the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday night. According to law enforcement sources, Allen, who was a hotel guest, told officials he intended to shoot Trump administration officials and was armed with a shotgun, handgun, and multiple knives. Security personnel exchanged gunfire with Allen, though he was not injured, and authorities believe he acted alone.

Who is affected

Cole Tomas Allen (the 31-year-old suspect from Torrance, California)
Security agents and police officers who exchanged fire with the suspect
Attendees of the White House Correspondents' Dinner
C2 Education (Allen's former employer)
Washington Hilton hotel guests and staff
Trump administration officials (stated as intended targets)

What action is being taken

The suspect is being held in custody after his arrest
FBI agents and police are searching an address in California linked to the alleged gunman
The suspect is facing two federal charges that will be formally filed on Monday

Why it matters

This incident represents a serious security breach at a high-profile event attended by government officials, journalists, and dignitaries. The fact that an armed individual was able to enter the venue as a hotel guest and fire multiple shots highlights potential vulnerabilities in security protocols for events involving public officials. The suspect's stated intention to target Trump administration officials underscores ongoing concerns about political violence and threats against government personnel.

What's next

The suspect will be formally charged on Monday in federal court

Read full article from source: BBC