FBI searches suspect’s home after D.C. shooting
Gunman faces charges as motive investigation continues
FBI agents searched the California home of Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, in connection with a shooting outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton. Federal authorities say Allen opened fire at a Secret Service agent near the event venue and was taken into custody; investigators executed a late-night raid on his residence to seize electronic devices and other materials that might clarify his background, planning and possible connections.
Authorities say the agent who was shot survived after the vest stopped the round and is in good condition. Officials have described Allen as acting alone but continue to probe motive. U.S. prosecutors announced he faces federal counts including using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on federal officers with a dangerous weapon; additional charges are expected when he appears in court.
Government and law-enforcement statements indicate President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance and other senior officials were present but safely evacuated by Secret Service. Closed-circuit footage released by the president showed an armed person running through a checkpoint before shots were fired. The National Capital Response Squad and local police responded to the scene.
Social-media and public records searches by reporters identified a man named Cole Tomas Allen as a Caltech alumnus with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a more recent master’s in computer science; profiles linked him to part-time teaching at a tutoring center and independent game development. Local reports noted a heavy police and media presence outside his neighborhood during the search. The incident recalls past attacks at the Washington Hilton and has prompted renewed scrutiny of event security and the suspect’s digital footprint as investigators work to reconstruct events and determine any wider risks.
