Suspect Identified in White House Correspondents' Dinner Shooting Incident

United States — Ekhbary News Agency

A shooting incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner in Washington, D.C., on the night of April 25, 2026, led to the apprehension of a suspect identified as 31-year-old Cole Thomas Allen. US President Donald Trump, who was attending the black-tie event at the Washington Hilton with his cabinet, posted a photo of law enforcement detaining the individual. During the gunfire, President Trump and other top officials were quickly removed from the venue, while hundreds of attendees sought shelter under tables.

Suspect's Background and Alleged Motive

Cole Thomas Allen, reportedly a teacher, engineer, and videogame developer from Torrance, California, traveled across the country by train to carry out his alleged plan. Officials believe he was targeting Trump Administration officials, potentially including the President himself. Authorities reportedly found anti-Trump and anti-Christian rhetoric on Allen's social media accounts, and he had previously attended a "No Kings" protest in California. President Trump described Allen as a "lone wolf whack job" and referenced an alleged manifesto expressing hatred towards Christians.

Legal Proceedings and Weapon Acquisition

Allen was apprehended while attempting to breach a security screening point, carrying a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives. According to Bloomberg, he legally acquired an arsenal of firearms over several years, including a shotgun eight months prior and a semi-automatic pistol in October 2023. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro stated that Allen is expected to face charges on Monday, including using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon. Torrance Mayor George Chen issued a statement emphasizing that the alleged actions of one individual do not define the city.