Cole Allen, a 31-year-old from Torrance, California, was charged Monday in federal court with attempted assassination of the president, among other offenses, for his alleged role in the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting on Saturday night. The charges include using a firearm during a crime of violence and transportation of a firearm across state lines with intent to commit a felony.
Allen did not enter a plea during his arraignment and will remain in federal detention until a scheduled detention hearing Thursday morning in Washington, D.C.
Details of the Incident and Charges
Federal prosecutors say Allen traveled by train from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C., carrying a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, a .38 semi-automatic pistol, and three knives. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro stated that Allen intended to assassinate the president and target high-ranking Cabinet officials attending the event. She described the attempted attack as a clear assassination attempt.
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner, held at the “Hinckley” Hilton, drew more than 2,500 guests, including politicians, journalists, and celebrities. After shots were fired, President Trump and other senior officials were evacuated safely. A Secret Service agent was hit by a bullet but was protected by a bulletproof vest and has since been released from the hospital.
Authorities quickly apprehended Allen at the scene. He was taken to a hospital for evaluation before being transferred to jail. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized that law enforcement officers prevented the suspect from reaching the president, noting Allen was located a floor above the ballroom and separated by hundreds of federal agents.
Suspect’s Motive and Investigation
Investigators obtained a manifesto Allen sent to family members, in which he expressed a desire to target administration officials, prioritizing from highest-ranking to lowest, without naming the president or the event directly. Allen reportedly stated he planned the attack to avoid feeling complicit in the “crimes” of the administration.
The investigation has included search warrants executed in California and Washington, D.C., as well as extensive interviews. The FBI affidavit outlines the timeline and details of Allen’s travel and actions leading up to the shooting.
U.S. Attorney Pirro highlighted the effectiveness of the security checkpoint outside the ballroom, which prevented Allen from causing harm to attendees in the crowded venue.
Why it matters
This incident raises concerns about security protocols at major political events and the ongoing threat of targeted attacks against public officials. The federal charges reflect the seriousness with which authorities treat attempts on the life of the president and other government leaders. The ongoing investigation will inform any adjustments to protective measures for future high-profile events.
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Sources
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