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White House press dinner shooting suspect identified as Cole Tomas Allen
A shooting occurred at a White House press dinner on April 25, 2026. The suspect, Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old tutor and software developer from Torrance, California, was arrested and identified; a Secret Service response prevented further harm, and charges are expected on April 27, 2026.
Why It Matters
The incident raises questions about security at high-profile political events and the investigation into the suspect's background and possible motive.
Timeline
7 Events
Formal charges expected
April 27, 2026
Authorities expected to formally charge the suspect on Monday, April 27, 2026.
Trump comments at press conference
April 25, 2026
President Donald Trump stated at a press conference that the suspect was armed with multiple weapons and is in custody.
Identity of suspect announced
April 25, 2026
Officials identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old tutor and software developer from Torrance, California.
Suspect arrested in connection with the shooting
April 25, 2026
The suspect, later identified as Cole Tomas Allen, was arrested in connection with the White House press dinner shooting.
Shooting at White House press dinner
April 25, 2026
At the Washington, DC event, Cole Tomas Allen allegedly opened fire, forcing the evacuation of attendees, including President Donald Trump. He allegedly attempted to dash past security at the Washington Hilton before being subdued by the US Secret Service. An officer was shot at close range but survived due to body armour.
Master's degree in computer science from CSU Dominguez Hills (2025)
2025
Allen completed a master’s degree in computer science from California State University, Dominguez Hills in 2025, according to a LinkedIn profile cited in the article.
Caltech bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering (2017)
2017
Cole Tomas Allen earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the California Institute of Technology in 2017, according to the article.