A California man accused of targeting President Donald Trump at a Washington gala has been charged with attempted assassination after authorities said they recovered firearms, knives and other evidence.
Cole Tomas Allen, 31, appeared before a federal magistrate judge in Washington on Monday after being charged with attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump. Prosecutors said Allen allegedly lay in wait before launching an attack during a high-profile gala attended by Trump, Vice President JD Vance and other officials. He was remanded in custody pending a further hearing.
Authorities said Allen was armed with a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, a .38-caliber pistol and three knives. FBI Director Kash Patel said shell casings and weapons recovered at the scene had been sent for urgent forensic analysis. Prosecutors added that Allen also faces firearms-related charges carrying lengthy prison terms.
The alleged incident occurred during a black-tie dinner in Washington, where more than 2,000 guests were present. A Secret Service agent was reportedly shot in the chest but survived after the bullet struck a protective vest. Trump later described the suspect as a “would-be assassin” who was “stopped cold” before reaching the ballroom.