LIVE UPDATES
April 26, 2026 8:24 pm GMT
Summary
- Suspect in White House press dinner shooting stopped before reaching main ballroom
- President Donald Trump says attacker carried a manifesto showing strong ideological hatred
- Authorities confirm manifesto was sent to suspect’s family before the incident
- Officials believe senior U.S. leaders were likely intended targets
- Security forces intervened quickly, preventing further escalation
- Motive remains under investigation, with early signs pointing to political intent
WASHINGTON, April 26(livenewsworld) – U.S. authorities have identified a 31-year-old California man as the suspect in a shooting incident that disrupted the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, as investigators continue to examine the motive behind the attack.
The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California, was taken into custody at the scene after opening fire near a security checkpoint outside the event venue, officials said.
Attack Near High-Profile Event
The incident occurred late Saturday at the Washington Hilton hotel, where senior government officials, journalists, and U.S. President Donald Trump were attending the annual press dinner.
According to officials, the suspect fired at a Secret Service agent, who was protected by a bulletproof vest and survived the attack.
Trump and other attendees were quickly evacuated as security forces moved in and apprehended the gunman.
Suspect Background
Law enforcement sources described Allen as a trained engineer and part-time teacher with no widely known criminal history.
He reportedly held a degree in mechanical engineering from the California Institute of Technology and a master’s degree in computer science, and had been working in education and game development.
Authorities believe he had been staying at the hotel where the event was being held.
Possible Motive Under Investigation
Officials say no definitive motive has yet been established.
However, preliminary findings suggest the suspect may have acted alone, with some indications pointing to ideological or political motivations.
Reports also indicate the suspect may have prepared a manifesto prior to the attack, though its contents and significance are still under review.
Security Concerns Raised
The shooting has raised fresh concerns about security at high-profile political events in the United States.
Authorities are reviewing how the suspect was able to approach the venue with weapons, despite extensive security measures.
Ongoing Investigation
The suspect faces multiple federal charges, including assault on a federal officer and weapons-related offenses, with additional charges possible as the investigation continues.
Officials said further details would be released as inquiries progress.
