By Kede Aihie
A 31-year-old California man, identified as Cole Allen, to be charged and arraigned today in federal court following a shooting attempt at a Washington hotel where a political event was being held.
According to reports, the suspect traveled by train from Los Angeles to Chicago and then to Washington, checking into the hotel the day before the event. He was armed with a shotgun and knives when he attempted to enter the venue. Shots were fired before he was detained. President Trump was confirmed safe.
Witnesses described “fear and confusion” in the room, with attendees ducking under tables. One called it “a pretty unbelievable experience.”
Authorities say they recovered writings from the suspect’s hotel room and his residence in Torrance, California, and are analyzing notes and phone data. Investigative sources cited by US media indicate the initial probe suggests the gunman appeared to be targeting members of the Trump administration, though the investigation remains ongoing.
Trump said the suspect’s “manifesto” showed “a lot of hatred in his heart and held strong anti-Christian views,” adding that the man’s family knew “he had difficulty.”
Cole Allen is listed as a part-time teacher at C2 Education, a video game developer, and a graduate of Caltech and Cal State University Dominguez Hills.
The incident has raised questions about security protocol. While authorities stated that “as far as the protection of the president is concerned, he was well protected, they did their jobs,” the event has prompted scrutiny over having the president, vice president, and speaker at a single venue. Officials note the security environment has changed.
The suspect legally purchased the firearm used, according to initial reports.
