Cole Tomas Allen Denies Attempted Assassination and Gun Crime Allegations
Cole Tomas Allen, 31, has entered a not guilty plea to federal charges accusing him of attacking the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, D.C., last month. The charges include attempting to assassinate U.S. President Donald Trump and committing multiple firearm offenses.
Details of the Attack and Legal Proceedings
Allen faces serious accusations of using a firearm during a violent crime and transporting a weapon across state lines with the intent to commit a felony. During Monday’s court appearance, Allen appeared in an orange jumpsuit, shackled at both wrists and ankles, marking his first session before U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden, who will oversee the case moving forward.
Prosecutors state that Allen tried to breach a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton hotel, where the prestigious White House Correspondents’ dinner was underway. He allegedly fired a shot at a U.S. Secret Service agent, who returned fire. Despite being struck, the agent survived thanks to his bullet-proof vest.
Security Response and Evacuation
Secret Service agents quickly subdued Allen just steps away from a staircase leading to the ballroom hosting the event. The annual dinner attracted top U.S. officials, including President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, cabinet members, and numerous journalists.
Following the gunfire, the president, vice president, and high-ranking officials were swiftly evacuated from the ballroom to ensure their safety amid the chaos.
