Chaos erupted at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night when an armed man stormed a security checkpoint, resulting in the evacuation of President Donald Trump and other top US officials. A Secret Service officer was shot at close range during the breach but survived thanks to a bulletproof vest. The alleged shooter was swiftly taken into custody.
The Suspect and The Breach
The suspect has been identified in US media as Cole Thomas Allen, a 31-year-old school teacher from California. DC Police Chief Jeffery W. Carroll noted that Allen was believed to be a guest at the hotel. Authorities stated Allen was heavily armed with a very powerful handgun, a shotgun, and multiple knives.
CCTV footage reportedly showed the gunman sprinting through a lobby security screening area at the Washington Hilton and firing at an officer before being subdued by law enforcement. Attorney-General Todd Blanche indicated that charges are imminent. Allen is expected to face court on Monday for multiple offenses, including using a firearm during a crime of violence.
Chaos in the Ballroom
The gunfire, which occurred just outside the main ballroom around 8:30 p.m. local time, triggered widespread panic among the estimated 2,500 attendees. Heavily armed guards patrolled the stage as Secret Service agents rushed President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and cabinet members to safety.
Attendees were forced to dive to the floor. ABC America’s John Lyons described the scene as absolute chaos, noting that guests remained huddled under their tables for 15 minutes. CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer, who was near the lobby when the shooting began, reported seeing the heavily armed gunman on the ground shortly after shots were fired. Sky News correspondent James Matthews noted an atmosphere of extreme fear inside the room, while journalist Jana Hocking recalled hearing the shots and jumping straight under the table to take cover.
President Trump's Response
Speaking from the White House later that evening, President Trump praised the Secret Service for their bravery and rapid response, confirming that the injured officer was doing great. Trump referred to the gunman as sick and pretty evil, adding that he believed the suspect acted as a lone wolf.
When asked if he felt targeted, the President compared the incident to historical assassinations, stating that attackers usually target the most impressive, inspirational people, such as Abraham Lincoln. He added that the country's recent success has made certain people unhappy.
Taking to Truth Social, Trump initially suggested that the event should continue, advising officials to let the show go on. However, law enforcement declared the hotel a crime scene, and the dinner was canceled. It is expected to be rescheduled within the next 30 days.
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