politics
Gunman Subdued at White House Correspondents' Dinner, Trump Evacuated from Event
A gunman armed with a shotgun, handgun and knives charged a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner on April 25, 2026, leading to an exchange of gunfire and the evacuation of President Donald Trump and other attendees.
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A gunman was subdued by Secret Service agents after charging a security checkpoint and exchanging gunfire outside the ballroom at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner on April 25, 2026. President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance and other attendees were evacuated following the incident.
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The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California, was a registered hotel guest and acted alone, according to law enforcement officials. Allen was armed with a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives. He fired shots during the confrontation, injuring a Secret Service agent who was protected by a bulletproof vest and taken to a hospital.
No other injuries were reported, and Allen was not struck by gunfire but received treatment at a local hospital.
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ET as guests, including Trump administration officials, members of Congress and journalists, were seated in the ballroom. Gunshots rang out from the lobby area, prompting agents to enter the room and instruct attendees to take cover. Witnesses described hearing multiple shots, with estimates ranging from three to five.
CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer, who was in a hallway near the incident, said a police officer threw him to the ground for protection. Attendees ducked under tables, and high-ranking officials were quickly removed by security details. Justice Department official Harmeet Dhillon reported a bruise from an agent running across her table.
" — Wolf Blitzer, April 25, 2026 (CNN) A server named Flavienne witnessed the gunman pull out a long gun and fire three shots near an elevator while pushing a service cart. She described the suspect passing within feet of her and another employee before opening fire toward the ballroom.
