Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Apr 28: US authorities have charged a man accused of opening fire near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner with attempting to assassinate the President, as investigators revealed details of a swift operation that prevented a potentially large-scale attack.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the situation was contained due to the “courage and professionalism” of law enforcement personnel, ensuring that the President and all attendees at the high-profile event remained unharmed.
The accused, identified in court filings as Cole Tomas Allen, faces three serious federal charges: attempted assassination of the President, interstate transportation of a firearm to commit a felony, and discharging a firearm during a violent crime. Officials noted that these charges could result in severe punishment, including life imprisonment.
According to investigators, Allen travelled from California to Washington by train and checked into the Washington Hilton, where the annual event was being held. On the evening of April 25, he approached a security checkpoint carrying a long firearm. At approximately 8:40 p.m., he rushed past a magnetometer, prompting US Secret Service personnel to respond after hearing a gunshot.
A Secret Service officer was struck in the chest but survived due to wearing a ballistic vest. The officer returned fire, and Allen was subdued shortly after, sustaining minor injuries before being taken into custody.
US Attorney Jeanine Pirro stated that the evidence indicates a clear intent to target top government officials. Authorities also revealed that the suspect was carrying multiple weapons, including a shotgun and a pistol, and had allegedly circulated a manifesto outlining his plans and targets prior to the incident.
Blanche emphasised that the attack was deliberate and carefully planned, noting that the suspect had arranged his travel and accommodation weeks in advance and transported firearms across state lines.
FBI Director Kash Patel described the response as a coordinated nationwide effort, with agents deployed across multiple states and forensic teams rapidly analysing evidence. He credited law enforcement agencies with preventing the situation from escalating further.
Officials cautioned that the investigation is still ongoing, and more verified information will be released as it becomes available. At the same time, authorities expressed concern over the broader climate of rising political violence, stressing the need to curb such threats to democratic institutions.