On the evening of April 25, 2026, gunfire erupted near a security checkpoint outside the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C., the traditional venue for the annual event. The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, allegedly ran through a magnetometer while armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and knives, and discharged a firearm.
U.S. Secret Service agents quickly evacuated President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other attendees from the ballroom. One Secret Service officer was struck by buckshot in the chest but was protected by a ballistic vest and survived. No other injuries or fatalities were reported among attendees or officials. Allen was tackled and taken into custody at the scene.
Federal investigators, including the FBI and Secret Service, charged Allen with attempting to assassinate the president, assaulting a federal officer, and related firearms offenses. He has pleaded not guilty. Authorities continue to examine his writings and materials for motive. The incident led to a temporary suspension of the dinner, which was later rescheduled, and prompted reviews of security protocols for high-profile political events.
