A California man has been charged with attempting to assassinate US President Donald Trump in a shooting incident that has triggered a review of White House security protocols.
Cole Tomas Allen, 31, appeared in court on Monday facing one count of attempted assassination and two firearms offences, BBC reports.
Prosecutors said Allen carried a semi‑automatic handgun, a pump‑action shotgun and three knives as he forced his way past a checkpoint at Saturday’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
A Secret Service officer was struck in the chest but survived thanks to a ballistic vest. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the officer returned fire, hitting Allen to the ground before he was arrested.
Investigators believe Allen discharged his shotgun at least once.
Trump, Vice‑President JD Vance, Cabinet members and senior officials were evacuated from the Washington Hilton ballroom as gunfire erupted.
In court, Allen wore a blue jumpsuit and spoke softly, answering “yes, your honour” or “no, your honour” to nearly every question. He confirmed his age and said he held a master’s degree. Three US marshals stood guard as US Attorney Jeanine Pirro prosecuted the case.
Prosecutors told the court Allen left his Torrance, California, home on 21 April, travelled by train to Chicago, then arrived in Washington on 24 April, checking into the Hilton ahead of the gala. He faces a potential life sentence if convicted.
Officials said Allen studied at the California Institute of Technology, worshipped at a Pasadena church, and once donated $25 to a Democratic PAC backing Kamala Harris in 2024.
An affidavit revealed he emailed family before the attack, writing that “administration officials… are targets, prioritized from highest‑ranking to lowest.”
Allen has not cooperated with investigators. More charges may follow. Security officials are now reviewing protection protocols after what is described as the third alleged attempt on Trump’s life.
Critics have questioned why the Hilton perimeter was porous and why top officials were gathered in one venue. Blanche insisted on Monday that “law enforcement did not fail.”
