WASHINGTON, DC — Federal officials say the suspect in the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting may have specifically targeted top members of the Trump administration, escalating the seriousness of the incident that disrupted the high-profile event.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said investigators believe Cole Tomas Allen, 31, traveled from California to Washington, D.C., and checked into the Washington Hilton ahead of the event. Authorities allege he approached a security checkpoint armed with a shotgun, handgun, and knives before attempting to breach the ballroom.
Law enforcement officials said Allen exchanged gunfire with security personnel, striking one officer in the chest. The officer was protected by a bulletproof vest and is expected to recover. Secret Service agents quickly subdued the suspect, who was taken into custody at the scene.
Blanche said early evidence, including electronic devices and writings, suggests Allen intended to target senior officials attending the dinner, potentially including Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other administration figures. “It does appear that he did in fact set out to target folks who work in the administration,” Blanche said.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes inside the ballroom as guests ducked under tables while security personnel rushed the stage. The event was canceled shortly after the shooting began and is expected to be rescheduled.
Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive, and the suspect has reportedly not been cooperating with investigators. He is expected to face multiple federal charges.
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