Donald Trump shooting suspect charged with attempted assassination

Ed Griffiths
Mon, 27 Apr 2026 18:19:58 +0000

A suspected gunman who opened fire during Donald Trump's White House Correspondents' Association dinner has been charged with attempted assassination.

Cole Thomas Allen faces life in prison over the alleged attack if found guilty, a judge said during court proceedings.

He was also charged with the discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, and the transportation of a firearm and ammunition through interstate commerce with intent to commit a felony.

Police previously said Allen, from Torrance, California, was armed with a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives when he was detained.

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Allen, who is currently in custody, has no criminal record and was not previously on law enforcement's radar.

Appearing in court, he wore all-blue prison clothes and entered no plea.

Allen was informed of his rights, including his right to remain silent and the right to a preliminary hearing.

He was then asked if he understood the charges to which he replied: "Yes, your honour."

Federal prosecutor Jocelyn Ballantine says Allen crossed multiple state lines in an attempt to assassinate President Trump.

He allegedly had a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, three knives and other weapons.

A detention hearing will take place on Thursday.

On Saturday night, the President was rushed out of the White House event by Secret Service agents.

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Officers were seen carrying machine guns, shouting "stay down, stay down" as they secured the scene.

The President was quickly rushed out of the Washington Hilton dining hall alongside First Lady Melania Trump.

Other senior Trump administration officials - including Vice President JD Vance - were also evacuated.

Many of the 2,600 attendees ducked for cover beneath tables, while waiters were seen rushing out of the hall.

Just over 20 minutes after the incident, the President took to social media to confirm he was safe.

He wrote on his Truth Social platform: "Quite an evening in DC, Secret Service and law enforcement did a fantastic job.

"They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended, and I have recommended that we 'LET THE SHOW GO ON' but, will entirely be guided by law enforcement.

"They will make a decision shortly. Regardless of that decision, the evening will be much different than planned, and we’ll just, plain, have to do it again."