President Donald Trump on Saturday shared the first visuals of the gunman who opened fire during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
In a post on Truth Social, the president released CCTV footage showing the suspect dashing into the event while security officials took aim at him.
Law enforcement officials identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California. A subsequent image shared by the president showed the individual lying on the ground, surrounded by security personnel after being apprehended.
Addressing reporters at the White House following his evacuation, Trump described the suspect as a lone wolf who was armed with multiple weapons.
He dismissed suggestions of a connection to external conflicts, characterizing the individual as a whack job acting independently of the war in Iran.
Officer saved by protective gear
The incident resulted in one security officer being shot at close range.
Trump confirmed that the officer was protected by a bulletproof vest, which successfully absorbed the impact of what he described as a shot from a very powerful gun.
Authorities clarified that the shooting occurred outside the subterranean ballroom near the main security screening area.
According to reports, the individual attempted to bypass a magnetometer with a firearm but was intercepted by Secret Service agents before he could enter the main seating area where the president and other guests were located.
A journalist reporting from the scene noted that the shooter charged the magnetometer closest to the front door and fired at a Secret Service member. The suspect has since been moved offsite for further questioning.
Official investigation and event cancellation
Although there was an initial attempt to resume the program, the White House Correspondents’ Dinner was ultimately scrapped for the night and will be rescheduled.
The Secret Service confirmed it is conducting a comprehensive investigation into the incident in coordination with the Metropolitan Police Department.
In a statement posted on social media, the Secret Service assured the public that the president, the first lady, and all other protectees remain safe.
The agency stated that while one individual is in custody, law enforcement is still actively assessing the situation.
The condition of all those involved in the scuffle near the screening area is being monitored as investigators work to determine the full circumstances behind the breach at the Washington Hilton.
