A 31-year-old man from Torrance, California has been taken into custody following the shooting incident that disrupted the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, DC. Officials confirmed that the suspect is currently hospitalised and under security watch. While authorities have not formally released his identity, multiple reports have identified him as Cole Tomas Allen.
According to sources familiar with the investigation, the suspect was carrying a shotgun and a handgun at the time of the incident. He is expected to face serious federal charges as the probe continues.
Who is Cole Tomas Allen
Cole Tomas Allen is reportedly a 31-year-old resident of Torrance, California with a strong academic background. Reports suggest he graduated from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) with an engineering degree in 2017 and later completed a master’s degree in computer science in 2025.
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Though these details have surfaced through media reports and online claims, officials have yet to officially confirm his identity. Conservative commentator Laura Loomer also named the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen on social media.
Trump calls suspect a ‘lone wolf’
US President Donald Trump described the attacker as acting alone. Sharing his assessment, Trump said, ‘In my opinion, he was a lone wolf,’ while also calling the suspect a ‘whack job.’ He added that there was no immediate indication linking the incident to international conflicts, including tensions involving Iran.
The President also raised concerns about the venue’s security, stating, ‘We looked at all of the conditions that took place tonight, and I will say, you know, it’s not a particularly secure building.’
Armed suspect approached security checkpoint
Officials revealed that the suspect approached a Secret Service checkpoint armed with multiple weapons, including a shotgun, handgun and several knives. The situation escalated quickly, prompting an immediate response from security personnel stationed at the venue.
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The suspect was apprehended and taken to a hospital for evaluation. Authorities believe he may have been staying at the hotel, though this detail remains under investigation.
During the incident, a Secret Service agent was shot while responding to the threat. The officer was taken to a hospital and is reported to be ‘in good spirits.’ Officials emphasised that the security arrangements in place were effective in preventing a larger tragedy.
Secret Service Director Sean M. Curran confirmed that President Donald Trump spoke with the injured agent after the incident.
Charges filed, court appearance expected
Jeanine Pirro, the US Attorney for Washington, DC, stated that the suspect is facing two charges: using a firearm during a crime of violence and assaulting a federal officer with a dangerous weapon. She added that Allen is expected to appear in federal court on Monday, with the possibility of additional charges as the investigation progresses.
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Authorities continue to piece together the sequence of events, with officials stressing that the case is still in its early stages.