The suspect in Saturday’s shooting at a Washington media gala attended by U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to be arraigned Monday in federal court, authorities said, as world leaders voiced solidarity with the United States and condemned the attack.
U.S. officials said the gunman, armed with a shotgun, handgun and multiple knives, breached security at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner before exchanging fire with law enforcement at the Washington Hilton Hotel.
One officer was struck in a protective vest and hospitalized in stable condition.
No guests or dignitaries were injured.
Metropolitan Police interim Chief Jeffrey Carroll said officers “intercepted that individual” during the incident, adding that he acted alone. “He was armed with a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives,” Carroll said.
The attack forced the evacuation of President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance and other officials as gunfire erupted shortly after the event began. Guests were evacuated after taking cover inside the venue.
Authorities said the suspect forced his way through a checkpoint around 8:36 p.m. local time before opening fire, triggering a rapid security response and the deployment of tactical units. The event was suspended as attendees were evacuated.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the suspect will be arraigned Monday on federal charges, including using a firearm during a violent crime and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon.
Officials have not formally confirmed his identity, though multiple U.S. media outlets identified him as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen of Torrance, California.
President Trump described the suspect as a “lone wolf” and said the motive remains unclear, adding that he appeared “sick.”
World leaders expressed shock and relief that there were no fatalities, condemning the attack and urging stronger protection for democratic institutions and press freedom.
