political

Gunman Opens Fire at White House Correspondents' Dinner; Trump Evacuated

| Trump 45 & 47

Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, breached security at the Washington Hilton and fired shots during the White House Correspondents' Dinner — the first attended by Trump as president. Trump, VP Vance, and cabinet members were evacuated; one Secret Service officer was struck (protected by vest). Allen — armed with a shotgun, handgun, and knives — was subdued. Acting AG Blanche said Allen was likely targeting Trump administration officials. Trump called Allen a 'lone wolf whack job' at a next-day press conference and proposed a secure White House ballroom. The incident is the third attack or attempt involving Trump since July 2024.

Security response at White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting, April 25, 2026
Security response at White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting, April 25, 2026 — CBS News / Reuters