Trump Attacker Bought Weapons in Los Angeles | Gun Used in Attack

Los Angeles, California served as the point of origin for the firearms used in the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday, April 26, 2026. Cole Tomas Allen, 31, allegedly purchased both a shotgun and a semiautomatic pistol in Los Angeles prior to the attack, according to court documents released Wednesday.

Allen, a resident of Torrance, California, is currently facing federal firearms and assault charges. The Department of Justice released details regarding the alleged attacker’s preparations in the days and minutes leading up to the incident at the Washington Hilton. These details included a photograph taken by Allen shortly before the attack, depicting him armed with multiple weapons.

The attack occurred during the White House Correspondents’ Association’s annual gala, attended by President Trump, Vice President, administration officials, and members of the press. While no one was seriously injured, the gunfire prompted a swift response from the Secret Service, who escorted the President to safety as attendees sought cover.

Background of the Accused

Cole Tomas Allen graduated from the California Institute of Technology in 2017 with a degree in mechanical engineering. During his time at Caltech, he was a member of the Nerf Club and a campus Christian fellowship, as indicated by his LinkedIn profile. He also worked as a tutor for high school students through a nonprofit organization in Torrance.

Allen is not registered with any political party. Federal election donation records show a single contribution of $25 made to Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign in October 2024.

Firearms Acquisition

Court documents reveal that Allen purchased the shotgun used in the attack last August. Further details regarding the specific make and model of the firearms are still under investigation by the FBI.

Alleged Preparations

According to law enforcement officials, Allen sent writings to family members shortly before the shooting, referring to himself as a “Friendly Federal Assassin.” These writings reportedly expressed grievances against Trump administration policies and suggested a politically motivated attack.

Investigators believe Allen was staying at the Washington Hilton, the location of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, prior to the incident.

“The man accused of opening fire at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner sent writings to family members minutes before the shooting referring to himself as a ‘Friendly Federal Assassin,’ railing against Trump administration policies and signaling what investigators increasingly believe was a politically driven attack.”

Hearst Television’s National Investigative Unit

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities continue to gather evidence and analyze Allen’s motives. The incident has prompted increased security measures at future public events involving high-profile figures.