WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal agent was hit by buckshot from the gun of a man charged in a shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, prosecutors said in court documents released Wednesday.
The revelation came during a hearing for Cole Tomas Allen, 21, of Torrance, California, who is accused of opening fire outside the Washington Hilton hotel on April 25, 2026, injuring several people. The agent, who was not identified, was struck in the leg and is expected to recover.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, and FBI Director Kash Patel held a news conference on April 27 to announce the charges. Allen faces multiple counts, including attempted murder and assault on federal officers.
According to the complaint, Allen used a shotgun loaded with buckshot, a type of ammunition containing multiple pellets. The agent was among several victims who sustained injuries from the gunfire. Authorities have not disclosed a motive but are investigating Allen's background and possible connections.
The attack occurred during the annual dinner, which was attended by journalists, politicians, and celebrities. Security was heightened in the aftermath, and the event was canceled for the first time in its history.
Allen made his initial appearance in federal court on April 27 and is being held without bail. His next court date is scheduled for May 10.
