WASHINGTON, DC — A shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner Saturday night prompted a rapid evacuation of Donald Trump and other officials after an armed suspect opened fire at the Washington Hilton, injuring a law enforcement officer.
Authorities identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California. Officials said he carried a shotgun, handgun, and additional weapons when he approached a security checkpoint near the ballroom. One officer was struck by gunfire but was protected by a bulletproof vest and is expected to recover.
Secret Service agents quickly secured the area and took the suspect into custody. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the suspect faces multiple federal charges, including assaulting an officer with a dangerous weapon.
Trump described the incident as “shocking” and called the suspect a “lone wolf,” adding there is no current evidence linking the attack to broader geopolitical tensions, including the Iran conflict. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser also said officials do not believe additional suspects were involved.
Investigators have not yet determined a motive. Law enforcement sources indicated Allen may have been a registered guest at the hotel. Public records and online profiles suggest he has a background in engineering and worked as a part-time teacher and independent game developer.
The incident disrupted the annual event, which Trump attended for the first time as president. The White House Correspondents’ Association said the dinner will be rescheduled within 30 days.
Witness accounts described panic inside the venue. Turning Point USA CEO Erika Kirk was seen being escorted out in tears following the gunfire, highlighting the chaos during the evacuation.
The Washington Hilton has long been considered a high-security venue, particularly after the 1981 assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan at the same location. The latest incident is expected to prompt renewed scrutiny of event security and protective measures for high-profile gatherings.
Sources:
- Associated Press – MBFC Rating
- Reuters – MBFC Rating
- The National Desk – MBFC Rating
- Detroit News – MBFC Rating
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