A suspect has been arrested following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., where gunfire caused panic and forced the evacuation of senior officials, including Donald Trump.
US authorities identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, who is facing firearms and assault charges. The charges were announced by Jeanine Pirro as investigations continue.
Officials said the suspect allegedly breached a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton before opening fire. He was reportedly armed with multiple weapons, including a shotgun, handgun and knives, and was wearing a ballistic vest.
During the incident, United States Secret Service agents confronted the suspect. One officer was reportedly struck at close range but was protected by body armour and later taken to hospital in stable condition.
Trump and Melania Trump were quickly escorted from the venue as guests took cover under tables.
Trump later described the suspect as a “would-be assassin” and said the injured agent was in good condition thanks to protective gear.
Authorities described the suspect as a lone gunman. Federal investigators, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, are continuing searches connected to the case, including at a property in Torrance.
Keir Starmer condemned the attack, saying assaults on democratic institutions and press freedom must be strongly denounced.
The high-profile event has since been postponed while security investigations continue.
