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Cole Tomas Allen selfie in Washington Hilton before WHCD; memo notes smirk and weapons

New evidence shows Cole Tomas Allen photographed a selfie in a Washington Hilton hotel room at 8:03 p.m. on April 25, 2026, about 30 minutes before an alleged attack at the WHCD. The image depicts him smirking at the mirror while armed with a knife, a shoulder holster, pliers, wire cutters, and a small leather bag described as consistent in appearance. The photo was submitted as evidence to support a custody motion awaiting trial.

Why It Matters

The newly disclosed evidence could influence pre-trial custody decisions and provides specific details about the suspect's equipment and demeanor prior to the alleged attack.

Timeline

3 Events

Article published detailing new evidence

April 29, 2026

The article reporting these developments, including the selfie and the memo, was published on April 29, 2026.

Government memo submitted citing selfie and custody motion

April 28, 2026

A government memo was submitted on Wednesday, April 28, 2026, referencing the 8:03 p.m. selfie in the Washington Hilton room, noting the photo was submitted into evidence to support the government’s motion for Allen to remain in custody while awaiting trial.

Selfie captured in Washington Hilton hotel room

April 25, 2026

At around 8:03 p.m. local time on Saturday, April 25, 2026, Cole Tomas Allen snapped a selfie in his Washington Hilton hotel room, smirking at the mirror while visibly armed with a sheathed knife, a shoulder holster, pliers, wire cutters and a small leather bag described in the document as “consistent in appearance,” the same bag alleged to be with him when he was caught (per TMZ). The photo was later submitted into evidence to support the government’s motion for Allen to remain in custody while awaiting trial.