NPR News: 04-27-2026 1AM EDT

This NPR News Now broadcast from April 27, 2026, recaps a range of developments: a prevented shooting at the White House correspondents dinner, diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, expanding wildfires in Georgia, a senator's reversal on a Federal Reserve nomination, blockbuster success for a Michael Jackson biopic, and a record-shattering London Marathon.

Foiled Gunman at Correspondents Dinner

Authorities stopped an alleged gunman, identified by NPR as Cole Allen, before he could enter the Hilton Hotel ballroom during the White House correspondents dinner on Saturday night in Washington, D.C. Allen faces federal arraignment on Monday. A White House official told NPR that minutes before the incident, Allen sent family members a document expressing intent to target administration officials. His brother alerted police upon receiving it. Allen's sister confirmed to authorities that her brother often made radical statements and had purchased two handguns and a shotgun, storing them at their parents' home without the parents' knowledge. NPR has not verified the contents of any writings attributed to Allen, amid unconfirmed reports circulating online denying personal accusations like rape or pedophilia. The rapid family intervention and preemptive stop highlight vulnerabilities at high-profile events and the role of tips in thwarting threats.