Law enforcement has identified the suspect involved in the shooting that took place during Saturday's White House Correspondents' Dinner as a 30-year-old man from California, according to various sources cited by journalist John Miller.
The unsettling event unfolded on Saturday night at the Washington Hilton in Washington D.C., shortly after the commencement of the gathering. Between five and eight gunshots were heard near the primary area of metal detectors at the hotel entrance.
Following the incident, former President Donald Trump shared a photo on Truth Social of the suspect who had been apprehended.
Soon after, the shooter was named as Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old male.
Both President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were swiftly evacuated by the Secret Service without any harm.
Attendees dropped to the ground, and the venue was completely cleared following the gunfire while the National Guard secured the hotel's perimeter.
Anthony Guglielmi, the head of communications for the Secret Service, confirmed the arrest and ongoing investigation: "The United States Secret Service, in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Department, is investigating the shooting that occurred near the main metal detector area. One person is in custody. The condition of those involved remains unknown."
The FBI also confirmed the suspect's detention and the ongoing nature of the investigation.
At the time of initial reports, authorities had not publicly disclosed the suspect's full identity or motives.
Good Morning America corrected earlier erroneous reports that suggested the suspect had died, confirming instead that he was in custody.
Due to security protocols, the event was canceled that evening, cutting short a historically significant night: it marked the first time Trump attended the Correspondents' Dinner during his second term, after having refused to participate throughout his first presidency.
In the aftermath, Trump took to Truth Social to commend the security forces' response: "What a night we've experienced in Washington DC. The Secret Service and police forces did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended."
This incident marks the first of its kind in the modern history of the dinner, an annual event that brings together journalists, political figures, and celebrities, famously known as the night Washington laughs at itself.
Key Details About the White House Correspondents' Dinner Shooting
Who was identified as the shooter at the White House Correspondents' Dinner?
The shooter was identified as Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old man from California.
Were there any injuries reported during the shooting incident?
The condition of those involved is currently unknown, and no injuries have been officially reported.
What was the response of the authorities following the shooting?
The Secret Service quickly evacuated President Trump and the First Lady, while the venue was cleared and the National Guard secured the perimeter. The suspect was apprehended, and an investigation is underway.