Washington, Apr 26, 2026: A suspected gunman was detained after shots were fired near a security checkpoint as Donald Trump attended the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington on Saturday night, officials said.
The incident occurred at the Washington Hilton, where hundreds of guests had gathered for the black-tie event. Security personnel quickly overpowered the suspect at a screening area outside the ballroom, preventing any breach of the main venue.

Trump was escorted off the stage as security teams moved swiftly through the hall, with some attendees taking cover under tables amid the confusion.
According to reports, the suspect has been identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from California. Images circulating on social media showed him pinned to the ground by law enforcement officers near a staircase.
Addressing reporters later, Trump said the man was armed with multiple weapons and attempted to charge through a security checkpoint before being stopped by the Secret Service. He added that one officer was shot during the incident but was unharmed due to a bulletproof vest.
“A man charged a security checkpoint armed with multiple weapons, and he was taken down by some very brave members of the Secret Service,” Trump said, adding that he had spoken to the injured officer, who was “doing great.”
The President said multiple charges were expected to be filed against the suspect, including those related to firearms possession and the shooting.
Authorities are continuing investigations, with law enforcement teams reportedly searching the suspect’s residence. Officials said further details on the case would be released after preliminary inquiries.