Story perspectives

High-Res Video Shows Allen Raising Shotgun Before Trump Dinner Attack

4/30/2026

Left

Allen Attempts Assassination

High-resolution footage shows Allen’s four-second sprint, raising a shotgun just before Secret Service agents opened fire.
Cole Tomas Allen attempted to assassinate U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House Correspondents’ dinner, where Secret Service shot him.
A filing says it is unconfirmed if Allen’s shotgun fired bullet that injured the officer.
Prosecutors called the attack a planned anti-democratic act of political violence threatening hundreds of attendees.

Right

Melania Defends

Melania Trump remained composed, took cover on Secret Service direction, and urged guests to do the same during dinner attack.
Cole Thomas Allen, 31, opened fire with a shotgun at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, injuring a Secret Service officer.
Secret Service agents were praised for swiftly subduing Allen and securing the venue.
The officer is expected to recover, and senior advisor Marc Beckman praised Melania’s decisive leadership.

History

Historical Context

On January 8 2011, Jared Lee Loughner opened fire on Rep. Gabrielle Giffords in Tucson, killing six and discharging 59 rounds. The tragedy sparked a national debate over gun control and political rhetoric. That controversy set a precedent that informs current efforts to protect high-profile gatherings such as the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington.

1 of 3

Allen Attempts Assassination

High-resolution footage shows Allen’s four-second sprint, raising a shotgun just before Secret Service agents opened fire.
Cole Tomas Allen attempted to assassinate U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House Correspondents’ dinner, where Secret Service shot him.
A filing says it is unconfirmed if Allen’s shotgun fired bullet that injured the officer.
Prosecutors called the attack a planned anti-democratic act of political violence threatening hundreds of attendees.

1 / 3