The suspect has been identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California. Reports indicate he was a guest at the hotel and allegedly attempted to pass through metal detectors while carrying a shotgun and a handgun. He currently faces charges for assaulting a federal officer and using a firearm.
Trump quickly issued a statement on Truth Social confirming that he, the First Lady, and the Vice President are in "perfect condition." He praised the Secret Service for acting "quickly and bravely" and noted that while he initially wanted the dinner to continue, he would follow law enforcement’s guidance.
One Secret Service officer was shot during the encounter but is "doing great" after being saved by his bullet-proof vest. Trump later addressed the media from the White House, describing the gunman as a "lone wolf" and a "very sick person" while confirming that no other injuries were reported.
The high-profile event was officially cancelled for the night and is expected to be rescheduled within 30 days. Following the shooting, a large police cordon was established around the hotel, and the FBI's National Capital Response Squad has taken over the ongoing investigation.
