President Donald Trump was evacuated from the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday night after a shooting incident at the Washington Hilton hotel. A Secret Service agent was shot at close range but saved by a bulletproof vest, according to Trump. The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, was taken into custody.
The suspect, armed with a shotgun, handgun, and multiple knives, charged a security checkpoint at the hotel. Secret Service agents quickly subdued him. Trump stated that the agent who was shot is in good spirits and recovering. The suspect was also hospitalized for evaluation but was not struck by gunfire.
Authorities believe the suspect acted alone, though the motive remains unclear. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the bureau's counter-terrorism unit is leading the investigation. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the suspect is believed to have been targeting members of the Trump administration.
The suspect traveled by train from California to Chicago and then to Washington, checking into the hotel days before the event. He is expected to face charges including using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer. His first court appearance is scheduled for Monday.
