NewsPBS NewsHourMay 1, 2026United States
Surveillance footage released in White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting case
Federal prosecutors have released surveillance video showing the suspect, Cole Tomas Allen, attempting to breach security at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner. Allen, who faces charges including attempted assassination of the President, remains in federal custody while awaiting trial.
Read the full story at PBS NewsHourWhy It Matters
The incident involves a high-profile security breach at a major event attended by the President and journalists, leading to federal charges that carry a potential life sentence for the accused.
Key Facts
- Cole Tomas Allen is charged with the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump and two additional firearms counts.
- Allen faces up to life in prison if convicted of the assassination charge.
- Allen agreed to remain in jail while awaiting trial following a court appearance.
- Federal prosecutors released surveillance footage showing Allen running through security checkpoints at the Washington Hilton.
- The Secret Service Director stated the distance between the security checkpoint and the President's podium was 355 feet.
- Prosecutors allege Allen was armed with guns, knives, and an ammunition bag during the incident.
- The defense argues the government's case relies on speculation and notes Allen's writings did not explicitly name the President.
- The incident occurred on a Saturday night at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner.
- Allen is a 31-year-old resident of Torrance, California, who worked as a tutor and video game developer.
Who's Mentioned
personSean Curran“Secret Service Director who defended the event's security protocols.”personMoxila Upadhyaya“U.S. Magistrate presiding over the detention hearing.”locationWashington Hilton“The venue where the incident occurred.”dollar_amount355“Distance in feet from the magnetometers to the podium.”personDonald Trump“President of the United States at the time of the event.”personJeanine Pirro“U.S. attorney for Washington who released the surveillance footage.”dollar_amount31“Age of the suspect, Cole Tomas Allen.”personCole Tomas Allen“The suspect charged with the attempted assassination of President Trump.”