A federal grand jury has indicted Cole Tomas Allen, the 31-year-old man accused of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner in April, on a new terrorism charge, according to the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.
Allen, who is also facing multiple federal charges related to the incident, was previously charged with attempting to kill the President, assaulting a Secret Service agent, and transporting a firearm with intent to commit a felony. The new terrorism charge was announced by prosecutors on Friday, following a grand jury indictment.
Key Events of April 25 Incident
On the night of the White House Correspondents' Dinner, Allen allegedly crashed the event at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C. He reportedly rushed past Secret Service checkpoint barriers and engaged in a gunfight with agents stationed outside the venue. President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, seated at the head table, were immediately escorted to safety as gunfire erupted.
A Secret Service agent was struck by buckshot from Allen’s Mossberg Maverick 88 12-gauge pump-action shotgun and treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The gunfire was audible inside the ballroom, causing journalists and guests to take cover under tables. Vice President JD Vance was also present at the event.
Legal Charges and Prosecution
Allen now faces a total of five federal charges, including:
- Attempted assassination of the President of the United States
- Assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon
- Transporting a firearm and ammunition in interstate commerce with intent to commit a felony
- Discharging a firearm during a crime of violence
- New terrorism charge
Federal prosecutors have not yet disclosed the specific legal basis for the terrorism charge, which typically requires proof of an act intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population, influence government policy, or affect government conduct through coercion or intimidation.
Official Responses
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia confirmed the indictment in a statement, noting that the grand jury’s decision reflects the seriousness of the allegations. The Secret Service has not issued a public statement regarding the new charge.
President Trump, who was at the dinner, later held an impromptu press briefing from the White House podium, stating his intention to attend the dinner again in future years.
Background on the Suspect
Allen, a resident of California, has not publicly commented on the charges. His motives remain unclear, and no group or organization has claimed responsibility for the attack. Investigators have not indicated whether Allen acted alone or had any affiliations with extremist groups.
The case remains under active investigation, with additional updates expected as legal proceedings progress.