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A gunman armed with multiple weapons charged a security checkpoint at the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner late Saturday, triggering panic inside the ballroom and a swift response from law enforcement that left one agent injured and the suspect in custody.
Authorities described the 31-year-old suspect, identified as Cole Allen of California, as a “lone actor” who appeared intent on causing significant harm. He allegedly rushed the screening area at the Washington Hilton, where President Donald Trump and other top officials were attending the high-profile event, before exchanging gunfire with security.
Inside the ballroom, the scene quickly turned chaotic. Guests in formal attire ducked under tables as armed officers moved in, while Trump, Vice President JD Vance and other dignitaries were rushed off stage to safety.
Officials said the suspect was carrying a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives. He was subdued after a brief exchange of gunfire near the entrance checkpoint and taken to a hospital. A Secret Service agent was struck during the incident, but the bullet was stopped by a protective vest.
Investigators have not yet determined a motive, though authorities said the suspect made vague references to targeting government officials. It remains unclear whether Trump was the intended target.
The suspect faces charges including assault on a federal officer and use of a firearm during a violent crime, with additional charges possible.
Trump, speaking shortly after the incident, praised law enforcement for their rapid response and said the dinner, his first time attending as president, would be rescheduled within 30 days.
The shooting, which unfolded shortly after 8:30 p.m. US Eastern Standard Time brought an abrupt end to one of Washington’s most prominent annual events, underscoring ongoing security concerns even at heavily protected gatherings.
*Source: ABC News
