A man has been arrested after gunfire broke out inside a hotel in Washington, DC, where the White House Correspondents’ Dinner was taking place on Saturday night. Authorities have identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California.
Security inside the Washington Hilton hotel stopped Allen, according to law enforcement officials. After taking him into custody, officers reportedly heard him express his intention to attack members of the Trump administration. Investigators are still working to confirm his exact motive, but early findings suggest that government officials, possibly including President Donald Trump, were his main targets.
Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche said the investigation was ongoing and emphasised that the suspect did not get far. He noted that Allen was stopped quickly and “barely broke the perimeter” before being detained. Authorities are also looking into reports that Allen may have assembled his weapons inside the hotel.
Reports indicate that between five and eight shots may have been fired during the incident. Police confirmed there was an exchange of gunfire between the suspect and security personnel, although the exact number of shots has not been officially confirmed. The suspect was not injured during the incident but was taken to a hospital for evaluation.
Police say Allen appeared to be acting alone. He was reportedly carrying multiple weapons, including a shotgun, a handgun, and several knives. Officials believe he was a guest at the hotel, which allowed him access to the location where the event was being held.
Images shared later showed Allen restrained on the floor with his hands cuffed behind his back, surrounded by Secret Service agents. Authorities have also searched a property in California believed to be connected to him.
Investigators have been reviewing Allen’s background and online activity. Reports suggest he had previously made social media posts critical of Trump. A document believed to be linked to him, described by some as a manifesto, allegedly outlined plans to target government officials. However, this document has not been independently verified.
Allen’s personal background shows he worked in several fields. He described himself online as a mechanical engineer, game developer, and teacher. He studied at the California Institute of Technology and later completed a master’s degree in computer science. He also worked part-time as a tutor, and he had even been recognised for his teaching.
Authorities have charged Allen with using a firearm during a violent crime and assaulting a federal officer. He is expected to appear in federal court to face these charges. Investigations into the case are continuing.
