White House Correspondents' Dinner Shooting Suspect Identified as Cole Thomas Allen

Authorities have identified the suspect in the shooting incident at the 2026 White House Correspondents' Dinner as Cole Thomas Allen, a 31-year-old from California, according to CNN sources.

President Trump previously posted images of the suspect and surveillance footage showing the individual moving through the hotel to his Truth Social account before law enforcement intervened.

Washington, DC Interim Police Chief Jeffery Carroll revealed details about the incident during a media briefing, noting that Allen carried a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives. As the suspect moved through a checkpoint, members of the United States Secret Service moved to intercept him.

"He was armed with a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives," Carroll said. "As he ran through that checkpoint, members of law enforcement from the United States Secret Service intercepted that individual."

The chief confirmed that an exchange of gunfire occurred between Allen and law enforcement officers.

US Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced that Allen will face charges including using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon. His arraignment is scheduled for Monday, April 27.

Carroll stated that Allen was the sole gunman involved in the incident. Following his arrest, Allen was transported to a hospital for evaluation. The interim chief confirmed that Allen sustained no gunshot wounds during the encounter.

President Trump indicated that the White House Correspondents' Dinner will be rescheduled within the next 30 days, describing the future event as "bigger and better."