Web Desk: Authorities arrested a suspect after a shooting incident during a press dinner attended by U.S. President Donald Trump, officials said, adding that the president remained unharmed and under full protection.
Investigators identified the suspect as Cole Thomas Allen, a 31-year-old resident of California. However, some official records listed his age as 41. According to U.S. officials, Allen works as a teacher and has also been involved in game development.
Law enforcement agents, including FBI personnel, searched the suspect’s residence in Los Angeles shortly after the incident. Officials sealed off the property as part of the ongoing investigation.
According to initial findings, Allen graduated from the California Institute of Technology and later earned a master’s degree from California State University in 2025. He reportedly worked as a part-time teacher and previously served as a teaching assistant. Reports also indicated that he received a teaching award in December 2024.
Police said the suspect carried multiple weapons at the time of the attack, including a shotgun, a pistol, and a knife. He attempted to engage security personnel, prompting a swift response. During the confrontation, a Secret Service agent sustained a gunshot impact but avoided injury due to a bulletproof vest.
Meanwhile, authorities confirmed that they took the suspect into custody at the scene. They later transferred him to a hospital for medical evaluation. The U.S. Attorney General said officials plan to present the suspect in court on Monday, where he will face charges including weapons violations and assault on a federal officer.
In addition, Washington’s police chief told reporters that officers did not shoot the suspect during the operation. Investigators believe he may have been staying at a hotel in the city, and they have secured a room there as part of the inquiry. Officials added that the suspect appeared to have acted alone, although they continue to investigate his motives.
President Trump later stated that the suspect had ties to California and credited law enforcement for acting quickly. He said their response likely prevented further casualties and saved thousands of lives.
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