US President Donald Trump has described the suspect accused of attempting to attack senior administration officials at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner as a “deeply disturbed individual” after investigators revealed the man carried multiple weapons and authored a manifesto targeting top government figures.
Authorities identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, though officials have cautioned that some personal details circulating publicly have not yet been formally confirmed.
Allen was taken into custody after opening fire at a security checkpoint inside the Washington Hilton, where the high-profile media event was being held.
Manifesto detailed alleged plan
According to law enforcement officials cited by Reuters, Allen wrote a manifesto shortly before the attack in which he referred to himself as the “Friendly Federal Assassin”.
The document allegedly outlined an intent to target Trump administration officials in descending order of rank. Investigators said the writing included religious references and framed the planned violence as retaliation for policies the author believed had harmed vulnerable groups.
The manifesto was reportedly sent to family members before the incident and mocked what it described as inadequate security at the venue. Officials said Allen appeared to believe he would not be perceived as a threat despite being heavily armed.
Weapons and arrest
Investigators said Allen entered the hotel carrying a shotgun, a handgun, and several knives. During the incident, he allegedly fired a shotgun at a Secret Service agent assigned to the checkpoint.
The agent avoided serious injury after the round struck protective body armor. Allen was quickly subdued and arrested by security personnel.
Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Cabinet members, and dozens of senior officials were evacuated from the ballroom as a precaution.
Trump comments and security concerns
In television interviews following the incident, Trump said the suspect had previously come to the attention of law enforcement after family members raised concerns about his behavior.
He described Allen as someone who had undergone significant ideological and religious changes in recent years.
Trump also questioned the safety of hosting major government events at off-site venues, renewing criticism of the Washington Hilton’s ballroom layout.
He used the incident to promote plans for a new secure ballroom at the White House, saying it would feature controlled access points, reinforced construction, and advanced security systems. The project is expected to be completed by 2028.
Federal charges expected
Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche said Allen traveled to Washington by train and checked into the hotel one day before the event. Because passenger rail travel does not require airport-style security screening, officials are reviewing whether additional safeguards are needed for major political gatherings.
Allen is expected to be charged in federal court with assaulting a federal officer, discharging a firearm, and attempted murder of a federal agent. Prosecutors indicated that additional charges may follow as the investigation continues.
Motive still under review
Authorities said they have not yet established a definitive motive or identified any broader network connected to the attack. Investigators are examining Allen’s online activity, political involvement, and recent travel history.
Federal agencies, including the FBI and the US Secret Service, are jointly leading the inquiry.
The shooting has intensified renewed national concern over political violence in the United States and prompted questions about security protocols surrounding elite political and media events.
World leaders and US officials across party lines condemned the attack, expressing relief that no fatalities occurred and calling for a thorough investigation.
