WASHINGTON D.C. - Gunfire erupted Saturday evening near a security checkpoint for the White House Correspondents' Dinner, prompting the immediate evacuation of President Trump and other VIPs from the Washington Hilton. The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old former tutoring teacher from Torrance, California, was apprehended by law enforcement officials.
The incident unfolded around 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time, approximately 20 minutes after the President and First Lady made their entrance into the ballroom. Allen reportedly rushed a security perimeter and opened fire outside the ballroom before being taken into custody. Officials believe he may have been a guest at the hotel.
Law Enforcement Response
One law enforcement officer was struck by a bullet that hit a bullet-resistant vest; the officer is expected to recover. The U.S. Secret Service, in coordination with the Metropolitan Police Department, is investigating the shooting. Early reports indicating the suspect was critically injured or deceased were not confirmed. The FBI confirmed a suspect was in custody, but provided no immediate further details. The investigation is examining how the suspect bypassed security checkpoints, including magnetometers.
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U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro indicated the suspect would face preliminary charges including "using a firearm during a crime of violence, and assault on a federal officer using a dangerous weapon."
Suspect and Motive
President Trump described the suspect as a "lone wolf" and stated he was armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives. Authorities believe the suspect acted alone. Trump shared images and video footage of the suspect on his Truth Social account, reportedly after the individual was subdued. The shooter's motive remains unclear.
Event Disruption and Aftermath
The gunfire caused guests to seek cover, with some reporting hearing shots outside the ballroom. The incident occurred despite what attendees described as unusually tight security measures for the event. Trump, who had been seated onstage, was escorted away by Secret Service agents. He later stated he "fought like hell to stay" at the event.
Read More: Gunfire at White House Dinner: Trump Evacuated, Agent Injured
President Trump announced plans for a press briefing at the White House shortly after the incident and vowed to reschedule the Correspondents' Dinner within 30 days. He later commented on the security of the venue, suggesting it "was not a particularly secure building," which he reportedly used to bolster his arguments for a White House Ballroom.
Background
The White House Correspondents' Dinner is an annual event bringing together members of the White House press corps, government officials, and the President. This year's event marked President Trump's first attendance as president. The Trump administration has had a contentious relationship with parts of the mainstream press, marked by public criticism and past legal disputes with news organizations.
