The man arrested after gunfire broke out inside the hotel hosting the White House Correspondents’ Dinner has been identified by law enforcement as Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old from Torrance in California’s Los Angeles region.
Authorities say Allen was detained inside the Washington Hilton after security agents intervened during the incident on Saturday night. According to multiple officials cited by U.S. media, the suspect allegedly told investigators he intended to target members of the Trump administration.
Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said initial findings suggest the suspect may have been specifically targeting government officials, potentially including former President Donald Trump. However, he stressed that the investigation is ongoing and the full motive has not yet been confirmed.
Blanche also said authorities are reviewing reports that the suspect may have assembled a weapon inside the hotel. He added that the attacker “barely broke the perimeter,” indicating he was stopped before reaching the main event area.
Police reports indicate that shots were exchanged between the suspect and security personnel. While he was not hit, he was taken to hospital for evaluation after being arrested. Officials said he was armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives.
Law enforcement described the suspect as acting alone. Investigators believe he may have travelled from California to Washington via train, with a stop in Chicago before reaching the capital.
CCTV footage shared publicly shows an individual running past security checkpoints inside the venue before being pursued by officers. Authorities are still examining how he was able to access restricted areas within the hotel.
A search has also been carried out at a property in California linked to Allen, while investigators continue to review his background and online activity.
Public records suggest he was not affiliated with any political party. However, reports indicate he made a small donation in 2024 to a fundraising platform supporting then–Vice President Kamala Harris.
Allen’s LinkedIn profile describes him as a mechanical engineer, game developer, and educator. He reportedly studied at institutions including the California Institute of Technology and later earned a master’s degree in computer science in 2025. He also worked part-time as a tutor and had been involved in educational services since 2020.
Authorities have charged him with using a firearm during a violent crime and assaulting a federal officer with a dangerous weapon. He is expected to appear in federal court on Monday as the investigation continues.
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