An acting U.S. Attorney general said the suspected gunman who opened fire at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner could be charged with attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump, as investigators examine writings found in the suspect’s hotel room that allegedly stated his intent to target administration officials.
The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California, was apprehended by law enforcement after gunfire erupted at the Washington Hilton on Saturday night. Secret Service officials confirmed the officer who responded to the scene was released from the hospital, noting his bulletproof vest prevented a more serious outcome. Trump told Fox News the suspect was stopped before entering the ballroom where the dinner was taking place.
Dana White, UFC president and a Trump ally seated near the front of the ballroom, described the chaos as “fucking awesome,” saying he did not take cover and instead “took every minute of it in.” White said he initially thought the shooter was near his table as security forces approached, adding the experience felt unique and intense.
The BBC noted this incident follows a pattern of political violence, referencing the shooting deaths of Minnesota State representative Melissa Hortman and her husband months earlier and the hammer attack on Paul Pelosi, husband of former House speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Trump used the moment to reaffirm plans for King Charles III’s upcoming state visit to the U.S., telling Fox News the British monarch is “a great guy” and “brave,” and that the visit would proceed as scheduled from April 27–30. He also said Iran could contact the U.S. Directly if it wished to negotiate an complete to hostilities.
The president announced a UFC fight event at the White House on June 14 — his 80th birthday — to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence, further linking his personal ties to Dana White with a public symbolic gesture.
What charges could the suspect face?
The acting attorney general said the suspect could ‘absolutely’ be charged with trying to assassinate Trump, based on evidence including writings found in his hotel room.
Was anyone injured in the shooting?
One Secret Service officer was shot but released from the hospital after his bulletproof vest prevented serious injury; Trump said the officer was in “decent shape.”
How did Dana White react to the shooting?
White said he did not take cover during the gunfire, describing the scene as “fucking awesome” and saying he “took every minute of it in” although tables were flipped and people screamed.