Suspect charged with attempted assassination of Trump at Washington dinner

April 28, 2026

A 31-year-old California man, Cole Tomas Allen, faces federal charges including attempted assassination of President Trump after allegedly storming a security checkpoint at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner on Saturday night while armed with multiple weapons. During the incident at the Washington Hilton hotel, Allen allegedly discharged a shotgun and a Secret Service agent was shot in the chest but saved by a ballistic vest before other agents subdued the suspect. Court documents reveal Allen traveled from California to Washington D.C. over several days and sent his family an email indicating government officials were targets before the attack.

Who is affected

President Donald Trump
Vice-President JD Vance
Cabinet members and White House officials at the gala
A Secret Service agent who was shot in the chest
Cole Tomas Allen (the accused)
Allen's family
White House Correspondents' Association dinner attendees
King Charles III (regarding security concerns for his state visit)

What action is being taken

A White House security review is being conducted
Federal investigators are looking into the alleged assassination attempt
Security officials are reviewing the president's protection protocols
White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles is convening a meeting this week to discuss protocol and practices for major events
The accused is being held in custody awaiting further court proceedings

Why it matters

This incident represents the third alleged assassination attempt against President Trump and exposes potential vulnerabilities in presidential security arrangements. The attack occurred at a high-profile event where the president, vice-president, and other officials in the line of succession were gathered together in one location, raising critical questions about Secret Service protocols. The incident at the same hotel where President Reagan was shot 45 years ago underscores ongoing challenges in protecting high-level government officials and has prompted a comprehensive review of security measures that could affect future presidential events and protection strategies.

What's next

The suspect is due to appear in court again on Thursday
More charges could potentially be filed against the accused
White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles will convene a meeting this week to discuss protocol and practices for major events
King Charles III's state visit security will proceed with Trump's assurances of safety

Read full article from source: BBC