BackPOLITICS
Trump Event Shooter Names Kash Patel As Only US Official Off Target List
During the White House Correspondents' Dinner, a shooter opened fire at the Washington Hilton. Cole Tomas Allen was captured; he had a manifesto listing intended targets including top Trump administration officials, with Kash Patel notably omitted. The incident prompted evacuation of officials and led to federal charges and an upcoming arraignment.
Why It Matters
The attack highlights security at high-profile political events and reveals details about the shooter's target list and the justification he gave for the act.
Timeline
4 Events
Charges and arraignment announced
April 27, 2026
Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for the District of Columbia, confirmed that Cole Tomas Allen would face federal firearm and assault charges and was expected to appear in federal court for arraignment on Monday, April 27, 2026. She added that further charges remained possible.
Shooting occurs; security evacuation and arrest
April 25, 2026
Shots were fired at the Washington Hilton. The president, the first lady, and the vice president were moved to safety by Secret Service officials, along with other cabinet members. The shooter ran through a security checkpoint and exchanged gunfire with authorities inside the venue and was taken into custody.
Manifesto outlines targets and Kash Patel absent
April 25, 2026
A manifesto, sent to family members roughly ten minutes before he opened fire, described the intended targets in order from the most senior Trump administration officials. Kash Patel was not included in the list. The manifesto also stated justification for the attack and the ammunition chosen.
Shooter arrives at Washington Hilton with three weapons
April 25, 2026
Cole Tomas Allen, 31, arrived at the Washington Hilton carrying three weapons: two handguns and a shotgun. He had a plan and had written it down.