Story perspectives

Gunman Breaches Washington Hilton, Trump Evacuated, Agent Wounded

4/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

A gunman breached security at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' Dinner, prompting President Donald Trump's evacuation.
The shooter was 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, a hotel guest armed with a shotgun, handgun and knives.
One Secret Service agent was wounded but survived because of a bullet-proof vest.
President Trump praised the Secret Service after the association said the dinner will be rescheduled within 30 days.

History

Historical Context

In October 1994, Francisco Martin Duran fired 29 rounds at the White House, prompting security upgrades. The 2011 shooting by Oscar Ramiro Ortega-Hernandez, which struck the second floor with seven bullets, led to added cameras and checkpoint reforms. The April 25 2026 Washington Hilton gunfire by Cole Thomas Allen during the Correspondents’ Dinner revived those concerns, underscoring ongoing threats to high-profile venues.

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Story summary

A gunman breached security at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' Dinner, prompting President Donald Trump's evacuation.
The shooter was 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, a hotel guest armed with a shotgun, handgun and knives.
One Secret Service agent was wounded but survived because of a bullet-proof vest.
President Trump praised the Secret Service after the association said the dinner will be rescheduled within 30 days.

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