Federal prosecutors have released a video showing how the suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, ran through security with weapons and tried to reach a packed ballroom filled with journalists, guests, officials and top US leadership including President Donald Trump present at the venue, reported AP
The incident took place during the White House Correspondents` Association Dinner on April 25 the suspect allegedly attempted to carry out an attack targeting US President Donald Trump.
Video captures the moment of attack
The footage, shared by Jeanine Pirro, shows the intense sequence as Allen rushed past security checkpoints. It was also sheared by President Trump on X.
JUST IN: President Trump posts video of SHOOTER on TruthSocial. pic.twitter.com/mVFkDaldpv
— Donald J Trump Posts TruthSocial (@TruthTrumpPost) April 26, 2026
According to authorities, he passed through a magnetometer and pointed a long gun at a Secret Service officer. The officer immediately fired five shots in response.
While earlier reports suggested the officer might have been hit by friendly fire, Pirro clarified that there is no evidence to support that claim. However, the video does not clearly show the exact moment when Allen’s weapon was fired.
Attack stopped within seconds
The incident took place at the Washington Hilton, the venue for the event. Officials said the situation was brought under control almost instantly.
Sean Curran, Director of the Secret Service, defended the security setup, explaining that the venue had multiple layers of protection.
He noted that there was significant distance between the security checkpoint and the area where Trump was seated, along with several barriers and armed officers in between.
“The site was set up perfectly,” Curran said, stressing that the threat was neutralised within seconds, reported AP.
Suspect’s movements before the incident
The nearly six-minute video also revealed Allen’s activities a day before the attack. He was seen walking through hallways and even visiting the hotel gym, possibly surveying the location.
Prosecutors said that just minutes before the incident, Allen took a photo of himself in his hotel room. At the time, he was carrying an ammunition bag, a shoulder gun holster and a knife.
Authorities also pointed to a message in which Allen referred to himself as a “Friendly Federal Assassin” and hinted at grievances related to government actions, reported the news agency.
Arrest and charges
Allen, 31, from Torrance, California, was injured during the incident, though not by gunfire. He was quickly taken into custody. He has been charged with attempted assassination and additional firearms offences. If convicted, he could face life in prison.
During a court hearing before Moxila Upadhyaya, Allen did not enter a plea and agreed to remain in custody while awaiting trial.
Defence questions intent
Allen’s lawyers argued that the case is based largely on assumptions about his intentions. They pointed out that his writings did not directly mention Donald Trump.
In court filings, the defence stated that the charges rely on speculation and that more evidence is needed. They also indicated that they may seek his release before trial at a later stage.
A close call raises security concerns
The incident disrupted one of Washington’s most prominent events and raised fresh concerns about security at high-profile gatherings.
However, officials maintain that the quick response by the Secret Service prevented a potentially more serious outcome.
Investigations are ongoing as authorities continue to examine Allen’s motives and actions.
(With AP Inputs)