A chaotic scene unfolded at the annual White House correspondents’ dinner as a gunman breached security, prompting the swift evacuation of Donald Trump. Despite a Secret Service agent being shot at close range, his bulletproof vest saved his life, while attendees inside the Washington Hilton Hotel’s ballroom sought cover under tables. Trump, unharmed, was escorted off stage as gunfire erupted. The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, from California, wielded multiple weapons including a handgun, shotgun, and knives, according to police.
Following the incident at around 8:35 pm local time (1:35 am UK time), Trump labeled the perpetrator a “lone wolf whack job.” Soon after, he reassured the public through a post on Truth Social that the gunman had been apprehended, commending the Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift response.
CCTV footage shared by Trump depicted the suspect running past officers towards the ballroom where 2,500 guests were present. Subsequent images showed the suspect being detained inside the hotel. In a news conference held at the White House, Trump reiterated the suspect’s lone wolf status, flanked by FBI Chief Kash Patel and Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Law enforcement officials later confirmed the suspect’s identity as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, from California. Meanwhile, authorities in Torrance, California, were pictured conducting a search at a residence linked to the suspect late at night. The US Attorney for the District of Columbia announced plans to formally charge the suspect with various offenses, including using a firearm during a violent crime.
This marked the third threat to the president since 2024, underscoring the need for heightened security measures. Trump emphasized the importance of maintaining societal order in the face of such incidents, stating, “We’re not going to let anybody take over our society.”