During that period, he also developed a physics-based role-playing shooter game called “First Law,” centered on two-dimensional space combat. While studying at the California Institute of Technology, he listed projects that included building offensive and defensive robotic systems, according to his LinkedIn profile.

He later developed another physics-based video game titled “Bohrdom,” described as a complex two-dimensional project. He described it as a “combination of a racing game with a bullet hell as experienced by self-propelled pinballs,” released on the popular Steam gaming platform, according to his profile.

Beginning in March 2020, Cole Allen worked for C2 Education, according to his LinkedIn profile. He later enrolled at California State University, Dominguez Hills in 2022 to pursue a master’s degree in computer science, graduating in May 2025. The university confirmed that an individual with that name completed the program that year.

A December 30, 2024 Facebook post from C2 Education recognized “Cole Allen of C2 Education Torrance” as Teacher of the Month, accompanied by a photo consistent with his profile. Federal Election Commission records also show that Allen made a $25 contribution to then-Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 election cycle.

During a late Saturday news conference, authorities said Cole Allen rushed a U.S. Secret Service checkpoint at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner while armed with multiple weapons.

Officials said Allen opened fire on a Secret Service officer, who was struck in his ballistic vest and transported to a hospital. Agents returned fire, and Allen was not hit but was also taken to a hospital, authorities said, Fox News reported.

United States Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro said at a press conference that Allen has been charged with two counts of using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon, adding that additional charges are expected.