Prosecutors Release Dramatic Video of Armed Suspect’s Attempt to Storm White House Correspondents’ Dinner
By Hotspotnews
WASHINGTON (May 1, 2026) — Federal authorities have released chilling surveillance footage showing the moment 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen allegedly attempted to assassinate President Donald Trump by storming the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner at the Washington Hilton on April 25, 2026.
In the video posted by U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro, Allen is seen sprinting through a security checkpoint, bypassing magnetometers, and charging toward Secret Service agents with a long gun. The footage appears to capture Allen pointing his weapon at an agent before gunfire erupts. A Secret Service officer was struck in the chest but survived thanks to a ballistic vest.21
Watch the full video released by prosecutors here:
https://x.com/USAttyPirro/status/2049975353976688653
Pirro stated in her post: “Today, we are releasing video already provided to U.S. District Court showing Cole Allen shoot a U.S. Secret Service officer during his attempt to assassinate the President… There is no evidence the shooting was the result of friendly fire.” The nearly six-minute compilation also includes footage of Allen reportedly casing the hotel the day before the event.15
Allen, a tutor and amateur video game developer from Torrance, California, faces serious federal charges, including attempted assassination of the President, assault on a federal officer, and firearms violations. He could face life in prison if convicted. He has remained in custody pending trial and did not enter a plea during his initial court appearance.7
Authorities say Allen arrived prepared with multiple weapons, including a shotgun, a pistol, and knives. Investigators recovered a manifesto in which he allegedly referred to himself as the “Friendly Federal Assassin” and expressed grievances against the Trump administration. He reportedly sent a note to family members outlining his intentions shortly before the attack.8
The incident disrupted one of Washington’s premier annual events, attended by journalists, celebrities, and administration officials. President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were safely evacuated, and no guests were harmed. Secret Service Director Sean Curran defended the security setup, noting the attack was stopped at the outer perimeter.18
The case continues to draw intense scrutiny over security protocols at high-profile events. Federal investigators, including the FBI, are examining Allen’s digital footprint, communications, and background for any potential accomplices or broader motives.
This latest video release aims to provide transparency amid public questions about the sequence of events and the officer’s injury. The investigation remains ongoing, with prosecutors indicating additional charges may follow.
This article is based on official statements from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, court documents, and reporting from the Associated Press and other major outlets.
source: ASSOCIATED PRESS