Investigators Say Gunman Targeted Trump in Washington Gala Attack

Authorities say the suspect who attempted to storm a Washington gala attended by Donald Trump intended to assassinate the president and other top officials, intensifying scrutiny over security at the high-profile event.

The incident unfolded Saturday night at the Washington Hilton, where Trump was quickly escorted out by Secret Service agents after the gunman attempted to breach a security checkpoint.

Surveillance footage later shared by Trump showed the suspect sprinting toward the checkpoint before being confronted. A brief exchange of gunfire followed, after which the suspect was detained.

“He’s not actively cooperating. I expect that he will be formally charged tomorrow morning in federal court in Washington,” acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said Sunday.

“We do believe… that he was targeting members of the administration,” he added, noting that the motive remains unclear.

Officials confirmed the suspect had been staying at the hotel and was armed with a shotgun, handgun and knives. Investigators believe he travelled from Los Angeles to Washington by train via Chicago and had acquired the weapons in recent years.

Trump alleged the suspect authored an “anti-Christian” manifesto, stating, “The guy is a sick guy,” and adding that family members had raised concerns with law enforcement prior to the attack.

Multiple media reports identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Allen, who allegedly outlined plans to target officials “from highest-ranking to lowest” in a message to relatives.

The shooting sparked chaos inside the ballroom, where prominent political figures and hundreds of guests were gathered for the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.

“They seem to think he was a lone wolf, and I feel that too,” Trump said. He also confirmed that a Secret Service officer was shot but survived due to a protective vest.

Trump criticised the venue’s security, calling it “not a particularly secure” location, as questions mounted over safety measures at the event.

The attack comes less than 48 hours before a scheduled state visit to Washington by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, adding to the heightened security concerns.

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