Story perspectives

Caltech Engineer Arrested for Washington Hilton Shooting

4/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

Cole Tomas Allen, 31, a Caltech-trained mechanical engineer and former high-school teacher, was identified as the suspect in the Washington Hilton shooting at the White House correspondents’ dinner and taken into custody.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said Allen faces two counts, will be arraigned Monday, and may face additional charges.
Federal officials called the act a lone-wolf attack aimed at U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, though motive is unknown.

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Story summary

Cole Tomas Allen, 31, a Caltech-trained mechanical engineer and former high-school teacher, was identified as the suspect in the Washington Hilton shooting at the White House correspondents’ dinner and taken into custody.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said Allen faces two counts, will be arraigned Monday, and may face additional charges.
Federal officials called the act a lone-wolf attack aimed at U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, though motive is unknown.