DOJ Adds Terrorism Charge Against Trump Assassination Suspect

Federal prosecutors have added a terrorism charge against Cole Tomas Allen, the California man accused of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner in Washington, D.C., in April.

A superseding indictment filed November 12, 2026, alleges that Allen, 31, attempted to kill Trump to influence government policy through intimidation and coercion and to intimidate civilians across the United States.

Before the shooting, Allen allegedly sent messages to relatives and a former employer criticizing Trump administration policies and identifying government officials as potential targets. One message described him as a "Friendly Federal Assassin," according to court documents.

Authorities say Allen reserved a room at the Washington Hilton weeks before the April 25 dinner and traveled by train from California to Washington carrying firearms and ammunition.

During the event, Allen allegedly rushed through a Secret Service security checkpoint with a shotgun and fired while heading toward the ballroom where Trump and senior administration officials were gathered. A Secret Service officer was struck in the chest but survived because of a bullet-resistant vest. The officer returned fire, and Allen was arrested. Trump was unharmed.

Allen was previously indicted on four counts, including attempting to assassinate the president, assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon and two firearms offenses.

The additional count charges Allen with an act of terrorism while armed under District of Columbia law, based on attempted first-degree murder. Prosecutors allege that the attempted killing was intended to influence government conduct and intimidate civilians, bringing the alleged attack within the district's terrorism statute.

A conviction on the federal assassination charge already carries a possible life sentence. The terrorism count introduces additional sentencing exposure under D.C. law, including provisions addressing offenses committed while armed.

Allen has pleaded not guilty to the original charges. He remains in federal custody, and U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden has scheduled jury selection for September 7, 2027. A hearing is also scheduled for December 4.