A suspect has been arrested following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., where gunfire prompted the evacuation of senior officials, including Donald Trump.
US authorities confirmed that Cole Tomas Allen, 31, is facing firearms and assault charges. Jeanine Pirro announced the charges, as investigations into the incident continue.
The suspect allegedly breached a security checkpoint at the venue, the Washington Hilton, before opening fire. Law enforcement officials said he was armed with multiple weapons, including a shotgun, a handgun and knives, and was wearing a ballistic vest.
During the incident, Secret Service agents engaged the suspect, with one officer struck at close range but protected by body armour. The officer was taken to hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.
Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were quickly evacuated from the venue as panic spread among attendees, many of whom took cover under tables as gunshots were heard.
Speaking shortly after the incident, Trump described the suspect as a “would-be assassin” and said: “He’s in custody and they’re asking him a lot of questions.” He added that the injured agent was “in great shape” thanks to protective gear.
Officials described the suspect as a “lone gunman,” with reports indicating he had no prior criminal record. Federal investigators, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, are conducting searches linked to the case, including at a property in Torrance, California.
Deputy Director of the United States Secret Service, Matthew Quin, praised the response, saying: “Tonight, a coward attempted to create a national tragedy. He underestimated the protective capabilities of the U.S. Secret Service, and was stopped at first contact.”
Authorities said the suspect was staying at the hotel where the event was being held. Witnesses reported hearing multiple shots before security personnel subdued and arrested him.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also reacted, stating: “Any attack on democratic institutions or on the freedom of the press must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. It is a huge relief that the President, the First Lady and all those attending are safe.”
The high-profile event, attended by senior government officials including Vice President JD Vance and other cabinet members, has since been postponed, with authorities citing security protocols as investigations continue.
