Cole Tomas Allen, 31, has agreed to remain in federal custody while facing charges for the attempted assassination of Donald Trump during a press gala in Washington, D.C.
- Suspect: Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California.
- Charges: Attempted assassination, discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, and illegally transporting weapons across state lines.
- Incident: A shotgun attack at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner at the Washington Hilton.
Details of the Attempted Assassination of Donald Trump
Allen allegedly stormed a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton hotel during the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. He fired a shotgun outside the ballroom doors where President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and several cabinet members were seated as the event began.
Federal agents responded by firing their weapons as Allen charged past security in the outer lobby toward the basement-level ballroom. The suspect was not shot but was wrestled to the ground and arrested.
The incident caused chaos at the dinner, leading Secret Service agents to hurry President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other officials out of the room. The event was discontinued, and all guests were evacuated.
Evidence and Criminal Charges
Prosecutors allege that Allen carefully planned the attack on Trump and other administration officials. Court filings state that Allen traveled by train from his hometown of Torrance, California, armed with a shotgun, a .38-caliber pistol, and various knives and daggers.
The prosecution claims Allen was “willing to commit a mass shooting” inside a room filled with high-ranking government officials. They cited an email Allen allegedly sent to relatives the night of the shooting, in which he referred to Trump as a traitor and a criminal and discussed targeting administration officials.
Allen has been charged with attempted assassination, discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, and illegally transporting guns and ammunition across state lines. He has not yet entered a plea.
Court Proceedings and Defense Arguments
During a federal court hearing on Thursday, Allen’s attorney, Tezira Abe, stated that the suspect would not immediately contest arguments that he is a danger to the community and should remain in jail.
Defense lawyers have highlighted alleged flaws in the government’s case, specifically questioning whether Allen shot a U.S. Secret Service agent. While officials stated an agent was struck by gunfire, the agent’s ballistic vest prevented serious injury.
The defense team further noted that Allen has no prior arrests or convictions and is an active member of his Christian church family.
Court documents indicate that Allen is accused of firing the shotgun toward the stairs leading to the ballroom, with a spent casing later found in the barrel of the weapon.
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