WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. investigators say the gunman who tried to force his way into a high-profile dinner attended by Donald Trump may have been targeting senior government officials, raising serious concerns about event security.
The incident unfolded Saturday night during a media gala in Washington, where Trump and other top officials were. Secret Service agents swiftly evacuated the president as the situation escalated.
Video later shared by Trump showed the suspect attempting to push through a security checkpoint before armed personnel intervened. A brief exchange of gunfire followed, and the suspect was subdued and arrested on-site.
On Sunday, Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that preliminary findings suggest the attacker had specific individuals within the administration in mind.
“From what we have gathered so far, it appears he was targeting members of the administration,” Blanche said, adding that the suspect has refused to cooperate with investigators.
He confirmed that formal federal charges are expected to be filed on Monday.
Authorities revealed the suspect was heavily armed, carrying a shotgun, handgun, and knives. He had reportedly been staying at the Washington Hilton, the same venue hosting the event.
Investigators also traced his movements across several cities — including Los Angeles and Chicago — before arriving in Washington. Officials believe he had obtained the weapons over a period of years.
The incident triggered panic inside the venue, with attendees rushing for safety as security forces moved in. Among those present were First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, cabinet members, and other prominent guests.
Trump later told reporters he initially mistook the disturbance for something minor before realizing it was gunfire. He described the suspect as a potential “lone wolf,” while noting that investigations remain ongoing.
A Secret Service officer injured during the incident was protected by a ballistic vest and is currently in stable condition.
Security agencies have since launched a full review into how the suspect managed to get so close to such a tightly secured event, given the high-profile attendees.
The suspect, identified by U.S. media as Cole Tomas Allen, is also being linked to a residence in California, where authorities have conducted additional searches.
The situation has reignited debate around security measures at major political gatherings in the U.S., particularly as the country prepares for an upcoming visit by King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
Investigations remain ongoing.
