Donald Trump was evacuated from the White House correspondents’ dinner following an alleged gunman’s attempt to breach the ballroom armed with guns and knives. The incident unfolded late on Saturday night, disrupting the annual event attended by approximately 2,500 guests, including journalists and high-ranking US officials. Gunshots rang out, prompting chaos as attendees sought refuge under tables.
The swift response saw Donald and Melania Trump safely escorted out of the venue without injury. Vice President JD Vance and other dignitaries present were also quickly moved to safety. The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California, was apprehended at the hotel. Authorities examining Allen’s electronic devices and writings suspect he intended to target administration members at the dinner.
Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the suspect likely traveled by train from California and checked into the Washington Hilton hotel. Allen is scheduled to appear in court on Monday. The event, which began uneventfully, took a dramatic turn as security measures were activated, with armed Secret Service agents seen on stage during the commotion.
CCTV footage captured the suspect bypassing a security checkpoint, prompting federal agents to draw their weapons. The National Guard was summoned to the hotel after the shooting incident in the lobby. Attendees, including widow Erika Kirk, were visibly shaken as they exited the premises following the disturbance. Cole Tomas Allen, who previously received recognition as a teacher of the month in Torrance, 18 months ago, was identified as the suspected shooter during the White House Correspondents Dinner.