Cole Allen Charged with Attempted Assassination of Trump After Washington Dinner Shooting

Cole Tomas Allen, the man accused of opening fire at a high-profile political dinner in Washington, has been formally charged with attempted assassination of the U.S. President Donald Trump following the incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.

Federal prosecutors say Allen now faces multiple serious counts, including attempted assassination, use of a firearm in a violent crime, and illegal possession and transport of weapons across state lines. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment.

The charges stem from a chaotic security breach at the annual event, where officials say Allen attempted to force his way into a restricted area while armed with a shotgun, a pistol, and knives. Gunfire erupted during the confrontation, prompting panic inside the venue and an immediate lockdown.

Secret Service agents quickly intervened and subdued the suspect before he could reach the main ballroom where senior political figures, journalists, and invited guests were gathered. Trump was evacuated safely and was not injured, though a federal agent sustained injuries during the incident.

Investigators say Allen acted alone, but are still examining possible motives, including writings described as a manifesto that expressed grievances against political leadership in Washington.

The case has now been escalated as one of the most serious security threats involving a U.S. president in recent years, raising fresh questions about event security at major political gatherings.

Allen remains in federal custody as court proceedings continue.