A U.S. Secret Service officer was struck by gunfire during an attempted attack near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., with investigators confirming the shot came from the suspect- not fellow law enforcement.
According to officials familiar with the investigation, the officer—who was wearing a ballistic vest—was hit when the suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, allegedly opened fire near a security checkpoint inside the Washington Hilton on Saturday night.
Authorities say Allen, 31, ran toward the checkpoint carrying a shotgun and other weapons. An officer returned fire after being struck, and the suspect was quickly apprehended. The injured officer was taken to a hospital and later released.
Investigators have ruled out friendly fire, confirming the bullet impact came from the suspect’s weapon.
Allen now faces multiple federal charges, including attempted assassination of Donald Trump, interstate transportation of firearms with intent to commit a felony, and discharging a weapon during a violent crime. However, he has not yet been formally charged with assaulting a federal officer.
Court filings reveal that Allen took photos of himself in his hotel room before the incident, dressed in black with a red tie and carrying gear that included ammunition, a knife, and tools. Authorities say he also sent a message to family members shortly before the attack, expressing intent and apologizing for his actions.
Investigators continue to examine digital devices recovered from Allen’s residence in California and his hotel room as they work to determine motive and planning details.
Allen, described by acquaintances as highly intelligent and a former engineering student, made his initial court appearance Monday. Legal proceedings are ongoing.