U.S. Charges Suspect After Shooting at WHCA Dinner Event
A suspect faces federal charges after a shooting at the WHCA dinner forced the evacuation of President Trump and raised security concerns.
Evacuation and security response after gunfire at WHCA dinner in Washington. Photo: EFE
April 26, 2026 Hour: 5:53 am
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Gunman in custody after security breach prompts evacuation of U.S. president and guests
A suspect is facing federal charges following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, where President Donald Trump and other attendees were evacuated after gunfire was reported.
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The incident occurred Saturday at the Washington Hilton, where the annual dinner of the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) had just begun. According to officials, a man carrying multiple weapons entered the venue and was intercepted by law enforcement before breaching the secured perimeter.
A CNN correspondent outside the main ballroom reported hearing between four and five gunshots. Authorities later confirmed that the suspect “exchanged fire” with officers after storming a security checkpoint.
U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro said the suspect is alive, hospitalized, and under custody. She confirmed he faces two charges: using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer using a dangerous weapon. The suspect is expected to be arraigned in court on Monday.
Law enforcement sources identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Thomas Allan, a resident of California. Officials stated he was carrying a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives. No motive has been determined.
During a press briefing, Trump described the attacker as a “lone wolf,” adding that the individual did not penetrate the security perimeter. Earlier, Trump posted on Truth Social that “a shooter has been detained,” later stating that he and those accompanying him were “in perfect condition.”
Security footage shared on social media shows a man running through metal detectors as agents react and pursue him. Additional images show attendees taking cover under tables as shots were heard.
Authorities reported the suspect fired at a Secret Service agent, who was not injured due to wearing a protective vest.
The Secret Service evacuated Trump, Vice President JD Vance, cabinet members, and other guests as security operations unfolded. The WHCA dinner has been postponed, with Trump stating it will be rescheduled within 30 days.
Trump and the press: previous tensions with WHCA
The event marked Trump’s first attendance at the WHCA dinner since returning to office after the November 2024 elections. During his first term, he boycotted the annual gathering and maintained a contentious relationship with the press, at times described as hostile.
The circumstances surrounding how the suspect approached the secured area and initiated the attack remain under investigation.
Author: MK
Source: Agencies
