A 31-year-old teacher from Torrance, California, has been identified as the gunman who opened fire during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night.
The suspect, named as Cole Allen, reportedly acted alone during the attack at the Washington Hilton. President Donald Trump described the gunman as a “lonely and disturbed perpetrator” following the incident, which triggered a major security alert.
According to authorities, Allen was arrested after entering the hotel and moving toward the ballroom where approximately 2,500 guests, including the President and cabinet members, were gathered.
The shooting occurred near the main security checkpoint shortly after 8:30 p.m. as dinner was being served. The gunman reportedly fired his weapon while advancing toward the hall, wounding a police officer who was saved by his bulletproof vest.
Washington Police Chief Jeffrey Carroll said the suspect was armed with a shotgun, a pistol, and several knives. Carroll emphasised that all current evidence points to a lone actor and that there is no broader threat to the public.
In a press conference held at the White House alongside First Lady Melania Trump, the President said he initially mistook the sound of gunfire for a dropped tray.
Witnesses inside the room described scenes of panic, with guests diving under tables as seven to eight shots rang out. One witness reported that the attacker appeared to emerge from a temporary area near the entrance where security screening was insufficient.
President Trump praised security forces for their “immediate and brave” response and confirmed that the event would be rescheduled within 30 days.
He also announced that a Secret Service agent was wounded in the shooting at close range but is expected to make a full recovery. Investigators are now preparing to search the suspect’s residence in California as they seek to establish a motive.