DC dinner shooting suspect due in federal court Monday

Cole Tomas Allen, 31, is scheduled to appear in federal court on Monday, April 27, 2026, following a shooting at the Washington Hilton hotel during the annual White House Correspondents' Association dinner, officials said.

The incident happened on Saturday, April 25, 2026, prompting an evacuation and a swift security response inside the venue, according to officials. Authorities said the ballroom was cleared and President Donald Trump, along with other senior officials, was moved away from the area.

Charges announced and additional counts under review

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said Allen is expected to face charges that include assault on a federal officer and using a firearm during a crime of violence. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said authorities are weighing additional counts, and attempted assassination is among the charges under review.

Officials said prosecutors are continuing to assess evidence ahead of the initial court appearance. The case remains under federal review as prosecutors decide whether to pursue charges beyond those already announced, officials said.

Investigators’ account of the alleged shooting

Investigators allege Allen fired a shotgun at a U.S. Secret Service agent at a security checkpoint within the hotel before he was taken into custody. Officials said the agent was injured, but a tactical vest provided protection, and the agent was released from the hospital within a few hours.

Officials said Allen also had other weapons, including a handgun and multiple knives. Authorities have not provided details on Allen’s movements inside the venue before the alleged shooting, officials said.

Travel details and a document cited by officials

Authorities said Allen traveled to Washington D.C. from California by train and had booked a room at the Washington Hilton. Officials said Allen left a manifesto with family members in which he described himself as the “Friendly Federal Assassin.”

Officials said the document outlined plans to target senior officials in the Trump administration, including the President. Officials indicated that questions about the checkpoint circumstances and protective procedures at large gatherings are expected to be central as the inquiry continues.

Security questions and broader attention

Officials said the episode has intensified concerns about protective security for U.S. officials at major public events that bring together senior government figures and extensive media coverage. Authorities have not described any specific security changes that may follow, and officials said the investigation will examine protective procedures and the circumstances at the checkpoint.

Officials also noted that disruptions involving the security of U.S. leadership can draw international attention given the United States’ role in diplomacy, trade, and security relationships. Officials said key next steps include whether prosecutors add charges—particularly any attempted assassination count—and whether further details emerge about the suspect’s movements and any future adjustments to protective protocols.