Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old teacher from Torrance, California, is identified as the suspect in Saturday night's shooting outside the White House Correspondents' Dinner. Authorities report that Allen mailed a manifesto to his family shortly before the incident, prompting them to alert law enforcement. The writings, which described targets as administration officials, law enforcement, and included anti-Trump and anti-Christian rhetoric, were sent about 10 minutes before the shooting.
Allen, who worked for a tutoring firm and was described by neighbors as on the "nicer, quiet side," checked into the Washington Hilton Hotel on Friday. He was found to be in possession of a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives. He admitted to authorities following his arrest that he intended to shoot Trump administration officials, with sources indicating the attack was planned. Investigators are treating this as a lone gunman incident.
Read More: White House Shooting Suspect Identified; Motive Being Checked
Suspect's Background and Writings
Allen, a legally registered gun owner, reportedly frequented shooting ranges. His social media accounts showed strong anti-Trump and anti-Christian sentiment. He also identified himself as "The Friendly Federal Assassin" in his writings. While the manifesto did not explicitly mention the Correspondents' Dinner itself, its contents pointed towards a desire to target individuals within the Trump administration. Allen was associated with a group called "The Wide Awakes" and had attended a "No Kings" protest in California.
The suspect was not previously known to the D.C. police department. A search warrant was executed at his home, and authorities are reviewing his writings to further understand his motives. The incident involved approximately four to five gunshots heard around 8:30 p.m. Eastern time. Allen exchanged gunfire with law enforcement before being apprehended.
Official and Political Reactions
President Donald Trump, who was evacuated from the event, commented that the suspect "hates Christians" and added that his brother had previously complained to law enforcement about him. Trump also suggested the shooting highlighted the need for his proposed new ballroom at the White House. Despite the incident, Trump stated that King Charles' visit to Washington D.C. would proceed as planned. No individuals were reported to be injured in the event.
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