Authorities claim accused shooter targeted Trump and U.S. government officials

US Authorities Investigate White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner Incident

A gunman attempted to storm the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on Saturday evening, prompting Secret Service agents to intervene and subdue the suspect. The incident occurred near the ballroom where hundreds of journalists, including US President Donald Trump and top government officials, were in attendance.

According to acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, authorities believe the suspect traveled from California to Washington, DC by train via Chicago. The suspect’s identity has not been publicly disclosed, but multiple media outlets have identified him as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California.

Blanche stated that investigators found evidence suggesting the suspect intended to target Trump administration members in attendance at the dinner. The suspect is believed to have purchased the two firearms he carried with him on Saturday night in the past couple of years.

The suspect’s electronic devices and writings were examined by law enforcement officials, who found an anti-Christian declaration written by the individual. According to Blanche, the suspect is not being cooperative with law enforcement and is expected to face multiple charges on Monday.

Social media posts attributed to the suspect suggest he has a background in computer science and mechanical engineering. One officer was shot but recovering from injuries, while the gunman was taken into custody without injury.

The incident has sparked a response from President Trump, who used the event to promote his plan for constructing a large ballroom next to the White House. The proposal has faced legal challenges and public opposition.

Source: Al Jazeera